Drivers in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory are being reminded to slow down and drive safely this Easter, as double demerits return for the busy holiday period.
The double demerit scheme will run for five consecutive days, from Thursday 17 April to Monday 21 April 2025, covering the full Easter long weekend. An additional double demerit period will follow for ANZAC Day, from 24 April to 27 April 2025.
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What Are Double Demerits?
Double demerit periods are part of a long-standing road safety initiative in NSW and ACT, where police apply double the standard demerit points for specific high-risk offences during public holidays and long weekends.
These measures are intended to reduce dangerous driving behaviour and protect road users during high-traffic periods.
Offences That Attract Double Demerits
During the Easter and ANZAC Day long weekends, drivers can receive double demerits for:
- Speeding
- Illegal use of a mobile phone
- Not wearing a seatbelt (driver and passengers)
- Riding a motorcycle without a helmet
In addition, offences committed in school zones may carry extra penalties, particularly on Friday 6 June 2025, when school zone rules apply during the King’s Birthday period.
Mobile phone detection cameras remain active during all double demerit periods. Offenders caught using a phone can face:
- $410 fine ($544 in a school zone)
- 10 demerit points
How Long Do Demerit Points Stay on Record?
According to the NSW Government, demerit points remain on a driver’s record for three years from the date of the offence. All licence holders begin with zero points and accumulate demerits for each relevant offence committed.
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Upcoming Double Demerit Dates in 2025:
| Holiday Period | Double Demerit Dates |
|---|---|
| Easter | 17–21 April 2025 |
| ANZAC Day | 24–27 April 2025 |
| King’s Birthday | 6–9 June 2025* |
| Labour Day | 3–6 October 2025 |
| Christmas & New Year | 24 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 |
*Note: On Friday 6 June, additional school zone penalties apply.
Are Fines Doubled Too?
No. While the demerit points are doubled, the monetary fines remain the same. However, the impact of accruing points can be long-lasting and may lead to licence suspensions.
Other States and Territories
NSW, ACT, and Western Australia are currently the only jurisdictions to enforce double demerits during holiday periods.
In Queensland, double demerits apply year-round for repeat offences of certain high-risk behaviours, regardless of the holiday calendar.
Other states and territories—Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory—do not use double demerits at all.
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Final Message to Drivers
Authorities are urging motorists to remain vigilant, take breaks during long trips, avoid distractions, and drive to the conditions.
“Every life lost on our roads is one too many,” a NSW Police spokesperson said. “The Easter holidays should be about spending time with loved ones, not dealing with tragedy.”
Plan ahead, stay safe, and remember: it’s better to arrive late than not at all.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
