Starting from October 28, 2025, Australia will officially implement new distracted driving rules that prohibit eating, drinking, and vaping while driving. These updated regulations aim to make Australian roads safer by targeting common distractions that contribute to accidents. The government’s introduction of road etiquette fines and advanced AI-powered cameras marks a major shift in how driver behavior will be monitored. This change affects every driver across Australia, and understanding what is and isn’t allowed is crucial to avoiding hefty penalties and staying compliant with the new laws.
Australia’s New Distracted Driving Laws Explained
The Australian Transport Department has updated its driving regulations to curb distractions that cause road mishaps. From October 28, 2025, drivers caught eating snacks, sipping coffee, or vaping behind the wheel can face instant fines. Authorities believe these driving behavior laws will significantly reduce accidents linked to inattentive driving. The rules also include stricter penalties for using electronic devices. Advanced cameras will automatically detect these violations. These laws emphasize that full concentration on the road is now mandatory, and any non-driving activity can be treated as a potential safety risk for all road users.
Road Cameras and Enforcement in Australia
New AI-powered cameras are being rolled out nationwide to monitor and identify distracted drivers. These high-resolution systems can detect subtle hand movements associated with eating, drinking, or using vapes. The Australian police authorities have confirmed that these cameras are already being tested in several states before full implementation. Once the rules take effect, drivers will no longer receive verbal warnings—only direct fines. Authorities expect these automated systems to operate 24/7, creating a safer driving culture and ensuring that distracted behavior behind the wheel is minimized through consistent monitoring and strict enforcement.
Penalties and Fines for Distracted Driving
Under the new policy, distracted drivers will face substantial fines and demerit points. The average distracted driving fine is expected to range between $350 and $1,500, depending on the offense. Repeated violations could even lead to temporary suspension of a driver’s license. These fines apply not only to smartphone use but also to non-essential actions like eating or sipping drinks. The intention is to create awareness that multitasking while driving is unsafe. The government’s “Hands on the Wheel” campaign will educate citizens on the dangers of losing focus behind the wheel.
| Violation Type | Penalty Amount (AUD) | Demerit Points | Detection Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eating while driving | $350 | 2 points | AI road cameras |
| Drinking beverages | $400 | 2 points | AI road cameras |
| Vaping while driving | $500 | 3 points | AI road cameras |
| Using mobile phone | $1,500 | 5 points | Camera + patrol |
| Multiple repeated offenses | $2,200+ | License suspension | Recorded violations |
How These Rules Impact Australian Drivers
These stricter laws mean Australian drivers will need to adopt better habits and avoid casual distractions behind the wheel. Carrying snacks or coffee might sound harmless, but the new road etiquette laws treat them as serious safety concerns. Drivers are advised to eat or drink only when the vehicle is parked. Similarly, vaping while driving is considered a visual and manual distraction. These measures may initially feel inconvenient, but they are expected to bring long-term benefits—reducing accident rates, improving driver discipline, and fostering a stronger sense of responsibility on Australian roads.
FAQ 1: When do the new rules start?
The new distracted driving laws start from October 28, 2025, across Australia.
FAQ 2: Can I drink water while driving?
No, even drinking water while driving will be considered a distraction under the new rules.
FAQ 3: Are cameras already active?
Yes, some states have begun pilot testing the new AI-powered camera systems.
FAQ 4: What happens if I’m caught twice?
Repeated offenses will lead to higher fines and possible license suspension.
