Australian drivers are being warned of new $1,049 fines that will officially come into effect on 12 December 2025. These tougher penalties target high-risk driving behaviours in dangerous zones where accident rates have surged. With road fatalities increasing in several states, authorities are intensifying enforcement to reduce speeding, mobile-phone use, and negligent driving in identified danger zones.
Why the Government Introduced the $1,049 High-Risk Zone Fines
Recent national safety reviews revealed that a large percentage of severe crashes occur in high-risk corridors such as school zones, roadwork areas, pedestrian-heavy districts, and regional black spots. The updated fines aim to:
- Reduce high-speed crashes
- Protect road workers and pedestrians
- Deter distracted and reckless driving
- Strengthen national road safety targets for 2030
The government’s message is clear—dangerous driving in high-risk areas will now carry severe financial consequences.
What Are ‘High-Risk Zones’ Under the New Rules?
Starting 12 December 2025, these tougher penalties apply specifically in designated high-risk areas, including:
- School zones during active hours
- Temporary and permanent roadwork zones
- High-pedestrian CBD corridors
- Rural and regional crash black spots
- Emergency incident areas
- Shared traffic and cycling lanes in busy suburbs
New digital signage and road markings will help drivers identify these zones more easily.
Behaviours That Now Trigger the $1,049 Fine
Under the updated enforcement program, drivers can be penalized with a $1,049 fine for:
- Mobile phone use behind the wheel
- Speeding beyond updated zone tolerance
- Failing to slow down near emergency vehicles
- Ignoring temporary roadwork speed limits
- Failing to stop at pedestrian crossings in priority zones
- Tailgating or aggressive driving in restricted areas
State and territory governments have aligned the offences to ensure penalties remain consistent nationwide.
AI Cameras and Enforcement Technology Will Play a Major Role
To support the new penalties, authorities will deploy:
- AI-powered phone detection cameras
- Upgraded red-light and speed camera systems
- Mobile enforcement units for regional areas
- High-definition night-vision cameras
- Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) networks
These systems are designed to catch offenders even in low light, heavy traffic, or poor weather conditions.
How Drivers Will Be Notified of Fines
From December 12 onwards, all states will adopt digital infringement notices, meaning drivers may receive fines via:
- MyGov notifications
- SMS alerts (opt-in)
- Traditional mail (backup method)
Digital delivery ensures faster issuance and reduces disputed penalty delays.
What Drivers Must Do To Stay Compliant
To avoid the $1,049 fines, motorists should immediately:
- Check speed limits when entering school and roadwork zones
- Keep mobile phones completely out of reach while driving
- Slow down when passing emergency vehicles
- Watch for new signage marking high-risk areas
- Maintain safe distance at all times
- Avoid sudden lane changes in pedestrian-heavy districts
Even minor slip-ups in these zones may now result in significant fines.
State-by-State Variations You Should Know
While the national framework is unified, slight differences apply:
- NSW and QLD have the strictest mobile phone rules
- Victoria has expanded pedestrian enforcement corridors
- WA and SA have increased regional black-spot surveillance
- Tasmania continues targeted enforcement near school zones
Drivers travelling interstate should understand these regional differences to avoid unexpected penalties.
Conclusion
The new $1,049 high-risk zone fines starting 12 December 2025 represent a major shift in Australia’s road safety enforcement. With stricter penalties, AI-powered detection, and expanded monitoring in dangerous areas, drivers must adapt quickly to avoid costly fines. These changes aim to save lives and reduce preventable crashes nationwide—making compliance more important than ever.
Disclaimer
Final penalty details may vary slightly between states. Drivers should refer to their state transport authority for specific enforcement guidelines.