QLD School Zones Paused for Easter Holidays

As Term 1 draws to a close on Friday, 4 April 2025, Queensland drivers are reminded about the important changes to school zone speed limits during the upcoming school holidays.

During school terms, school zones across the state operate with reduced speed limits, typically 40km/h between 7:00 am – 9:00 am and 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm on school days. However, with students commencing their break, school zone speed limits will not apply during the school holidays.

Queensland school holiday dates for 2025:

Term 1 Holidays: Saturday 5 April 2025 – Monday 21 April 2025
Term 2 Commences: Tuesday 22 April 2025

This means that from Saturday 5 April until Monday 21 April, the regular road speed limits will apply unless otherwise signed. School zone restrictions will only return when students head back for Term 2 on Tuesday 22 April.

Do You Need to Slow Down During School Holidays?

While school zones are inactive during holidays, it's still essential to drive safely and stay alert near schools and surrounding areas. Some schools may run extracurricular activities, holiday programs, or sporting events during the break, meaning children could still be around school precincts.

Key points to remember:

School zone limits are not enforced during official school holidays.
Public holidays (such as Easter) also lift school zone restrictions.
Always drive cautiously around schools as children may still be present.
Normal road speed limits apply unless a lower speed limit is specifically signed.

Traffic Enforcement During School Holidays

Although school zones are not active, Queensland Police Service (QPS) will continue to monitor driver behaviour across the state during the holiday period. Expect an increased police presence on major roads, especially during the Easter long weekend, with a focus on speeding, seatbelt compliance, mobile phone use, and impaired driving.

Holiday enforcement tips:

Double demerit points do not automatically apply during Easter in Queensland, but repeat offences (such as mobile phone use or not wearing a seatbelt) can attract double demerits.
Mobile speed cameras and roadside patrols will operate as normal.
Always check for any temporary road changes around construction or event areas.

Preparing for the Return to Term 2

When school resumes on Tuesday 22 April 2025, all school zone speed limits will be back in force. This includes the standard 7:00 am to 9:00 am and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm operating hours on all active school days.

Top tips for returning to school zones:

Plan ahead: Traffic is usually heavier on the first few days back.
Be patient: Allow extra time for drop-offs and pick-ups.
Stay alert: Watch for children crossing roads unexpectedly.
Obey crossing supervisors: Always stop when directed at children's crossings.

Summary

Term 1 ends on 4 April 2025.
School zone speed limits are NOT active during the school holidays from 5 April to 21 April.
Term 2 begins on 22 April 2025, and school zones will reactivate.
Drive cautiously even during school holidays.
Expect increased traffic enforcement throughout the Easter break.

Queensland drivers are urged to stay safe, drive responsibly, and always be prepared for children who might still be near schools even during holiday periods. Keeping these tips in mind will help ensure a safe and smooth transition from Term 1 to Term 2 for everyone.