As the Easter long weekend approaches, drivers in New South Wales are being reminded to drive with extra care as double demerits come into effect from Thursday, April 17 to Monday, April 21, 2025.

How NSW Driver Licences Are About to Change
NSW drivers can now access a secure Digital Driver Licence and upgraded Digital Photo Card via the Service NSW app, offering safer, faster ID sharing.
CarExploreDylan Anderson

What Are Double Demerits?

Double demerit points are a road safety initiative used during holiday periods and long weekends to deter dangerous driving behaviour. Under this system, drivers who commit certain high-risk offences receive twice the usual number of demerit points.

This system is applied in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia during the Easter period. It's important to note that fines remain the same, but demerit points are doubled.

What Offences Are Included?

Double demerits apply to a specific set of traffic offences, including:

  • Speeding
  • Illegal use of a mobile phone while driving
  • Not wearing a seatbelt (applies to both drivers and passengers)
  • Riding without a motorcycle helmet

In Western Australia, offences such as running a red light are also subject to double demerits.

Upcoming Double Demerit Periods

In addition to Easter, double demerits will also apply during:

  • Anzac Day period: April 24 to April 27, 2025
NSW Has the Most Speed Cameras in Australia
NSW has the most speed cameras in Australia, with some roads packing eight cameras into just 5km. Learn which roads across Australia are the most heavily monitored.
CarExploreDylan Anderson

Why Double Demerits Matter

Easter is traditionally one of the most dangerous times on Australian roads. Increased traffic, long-distance travel, and holiday fatigue contribute to a higher risk of serious accidents. Police will be out in force conducting roadside checks and patrols to ensure everyone stays safe.

Drivers are urged to:

  • Slow down
  • Put mobile phones away
  • Wear seatbelts at all times
  • Avoid risky overtaking
  • Rest when tired and allow extra travel time

What About Other States?

  • Queensland: Double demerits apply year-round for repeat offences within one year, not just during holiday periods.
  • Victoria: No double demerit system, but police will launch an eleven-day road safety blitz from April 17 to April 27.
  • South Australia, Northern Territory, and Tasmania: Do not use double demerits, but police will still increase patrols.
NSW Speed Camera Signs Return: Fines Drop by 88%
Speed camera fines in NSW dropped nearly 90% after roadside warning signs returned. See how this shift impacts road safety in 2025.
CarExploreDylan Anderson

Final Advice for Drivers

Holiday travel can be stressful, but safety should come first. Plan ahead, stay alert, and respect road rules to protect yourself and others. Every life matters — let’s make this Easter one to remember for the right reasons.

For more on staying safe and understanding demerit point rules in your state, visit your local transport authority or police website.

How a NSW Man Lost his License Instantly
A NSW man lost his licence instantly after being caught speeding at 194km/h. Learn about the serious penalties for speeding offences in NSW in 2025.
CarExploreDylan Anderson
Shocking Road Rage Attack on Uber Driver in Sydney
Shocking road rage attack on an Uber driver in Sydney’s Barangaroo caught on camera. See the wild incident and Reddit’s reactions.
CarExploreDylan Anderson