Hey, are you planning on driving while high on aerosol cans this weekend? Firstly, yikes. Secondly, don’t. Thirdly, depending on where you live, you could be hit with a double demerit strike.
But which joints are double demeriting on April 22 and onwards? And which joints don’t use this system? Let’s get educational, here are the deets you should know.
NSW and the ACT
From April 21 until April 25, NSW and the ACT will both have double demerits in place. This is because Anzac Day is taking place on April 25, and there’s a greater risk of a crash happening on a public holiday.
As Transport for NSW explained in a statement, “The demerit point system provides an incentive for drivers to improve their driving behaviour, obey road rules and comply with NSW traffic laws.”
“Double demerit periods were introduced in 1997 in NSW. Double demerit periods are advertised to ensure community awareness of long weekend periods, during which double demerit penalties apply. Awareness campaigns are coordinated with traditional enforcement and increased police numbers.”
You can receive a double demerit demotion in NSW for:
- Speeding
- Texting while you drive
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Driving while inebriated
- Doing an activity on the list here
Now, if you want to go through the ACT’s demerits list, then use this handy link instead.
Western Australia
Typically, Western Australia has a double demerit system in place. However, this Anzac Day, they will not be using it. This might be because April 24 is not a public holiday.
The next double period happening in Western Australia is from June 2 until June 5. This is because on June 5, the state gets a public holiday called WA Day.
Queensland
Yes, Queensland has double demerits. However, this state’s system works a bit differently.
In Queensland, double demerits apply all year round. You’ll be given this punishment if you break the same road rule two times in a row.
Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the NT
Alright folks, we’re down to the final four. And none of these places have a double demerits system in place. Yup, if you commit an Anzac driving offence in any of these joints, you’ll gain the standard amount of demerits.
However, it’s worth noting that these states will have more police officers on patrol this weekend. So don’t do anything foolish.
Related: The Obscure Aussie Road Rules You Need to Know About
Related: What’s Open on Anzac Day — Westfield, Woollies & More
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