Speeding Fines and Demerit Points in Australia
Last updated: June 2026
The Demerit Point System
Every state and territory in Australia operates a demerit point system. When you commit certain traffic offences, demerit points are recorded against your licence. If you accumulate too many points within a set period, your licence is suspended or cancelled.
Demerit Point Thresholds by Licence Type
| Licence type | Points before suspension |
|---|---|
| Full licence (NSW) | 13 points in 3 years |
| Full licence (VIC) | 12 points in 3 years |
| Full licence (QLD) | 12 points in 3 years |
| Full licence (WA) | 12 points in 3 years |
| Probationary licence | 5–7 points (varies by state) |
| Learner licence | 4 points (varies by state) |
Note: thresholds vary — check your state's road authority for exact figures.
Common Offences and Points
| Offence | Demerit points (typical) |
|---|---|
| Exceeding speed limit by 1–9 km/h | 1 point |
| Exceeding by 10–19 km/h | 3 points |
| Exceeding by 20–29 km/h | 4–5 points |
| Exceeding by 30–44 km/h | 5–6 points |
| Exceeding by 45+ km/h | 6–7 points |
| Failing to stop at red light | 3 points |
| Mobile phone offence | 4–5 points |
| Not wearing seatbelt | 3 points |
| Following too closely | 3 points |
Double Demerit Periods
NSW, WA, and ACT operate double demerit periods over public holiday long weekends. During these periods, the demerit points for applicable offences are doubled.
How Long Do Points Stay?
Most demerit points stay on your record for 3 years from the date of the offence. After 3 years, they expire and no longer count toward your threshold.
Suspension Notice
When you reach or exceed the threshold, you will receive a Notice of Suspension from your state's road authority. In NSW you can elect to have a 12-month good behaviour period instead of suspension (once per licence).
Speeding Fine Amounts
Speeding fines vary significantly by state and by how far over the limit you were. As an example in NSW:
- 1–9 km/h over: $138
- 10–19 km/h over: $325
- 20–29 km/h over: $632
- 30–44 km/h over: $1,049
- 45+ km/h over: $2,889 + court attendance required
School zones and school zones often carry higher penalties. Check your state's current fine schedule as amounts change regularly.
School Zones and Shared Zones
Speeding in school zones during school zone hours typically attracts higher fines and additional demerit points in most states.