NSW Driver's $5.5M COVID Fine Refund

Starting today, drivers across New South Wales are receiving email notifications from Revenue NSW with instructions on how to claim their share of over $5.5 million in refunds for fines collected during the COVID-19 pandemic. The refunds, which amount to between $1,000 - $5,000 per person, follow a decision made on November 26, 2024.

In a decision made by a disgruntled memb, full coverage of the circumstance surrounding the findings can be found at Courts NSW

In late 2022, the NSW Commissioner of Fines Administration, in consultation with the NSW Police Commissioner, withdrew 36,000 fines that were deemed unlawful and void. This decision allowed those who had received fines for breaching COVID-19 restrictions to receive refunds for fines they had already paid or have their outstanding fines and fees waived entirely.

CarExplore.com.au has received a copy of the e-mail circulating that affected driver's will receive in the coming days with further information on how to claim their refund(s).

Copy of letter informing of covid-19 refunds

Building upon this initial decision, a final ruling in November determined that the remaining 23,539 fines, previously considered lawful and not included in the first round of withdrawals, would also be rescinded. As a result, refunds are expected to surpass $5.5 million.

The remaining 23,539 penalty notices were not withdrawn as part of this decision as they were formulated differently, with a clearer explanation of the offences for which they were issued.

However, since receiving legal representations and further considering the descriptions in the remaining penalty notices it is appropriate to withdraw the notices for these 23,539 Covid-19 fines. - Revenue NSW

The NSW government is now in the process of notifying affected individuals and providing them with the necessary information to claim their refunds. The move marks a significant step in addressing the financial impact of fines imposed during the pandemic and providing relief to those who were penalized under the now-withdrawn penalties.

Are you affected?

NSW drivers who received COVID-19 fines between 2020 and 2022 are affected by this refund initiative. If you received a COVID-19 fine during this period, you may be eligible for a refund.

If you are eligible, you will receive an e-mail by Revenue NSW to the designated e-mail address that you have on file, alternatively, you can contact Revenue NSW.