Double Demerit Points: What You Need to Know

With Easter and ANZAC Day just around the corner, many of us are gearing up for road trips, long weekends, and family get-togethers. But before you hit the road, there’s something important to remember: double demerit points.

If you're not familiar with what double demerit points are, don't worry—we've got you covered!

What Are Double Demerit Points?

Double demerit points are exactly what they sound like: during specific times of the year, you can receive double the number of demerit points for certain traffic offences. So, if you’re caught speeding, using your phone, or not wearing your seatbelt, you'll earn double the usual amount of demerit points.

Where do double demerits apply?‍

Double demerit penalties don't apply nationwide — they're enforced in select states and territories during major holiday periods. Here's where and when you need to keep a closer eye on the rules:

• New South Wales (NSW): Double demerits apply during every long weekend and holiday period, including Easter, Christmas, and Australia Day.
• Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Follows the same double demerit periods as NSW.
• Western Australia (WA): Double demerits are enforced during long weekends and major holidays like Easter and Christmas.
• Queensland (QLD): While there are no holiday-based double demerit periods, QLD enforces year-round double demerits for repeat high-risk driving offences (like speeding or mobile phone use) committed within 12 months of a prior offence.
• Other states and territories (VIC, SA, TAS, NT): These states do not currently have double demerit schemes in place.

If you're travelling interstate this long weekend, be sure to check local road rules — what might be a standard fine in one state could be double trouble just across the border. And in Queensland, it pays to drive safely all year round, especially if you've already been caught once.

When Will Double Demerits Take Place in 2025?

For those driving around Easter and ANZAC Day, it’s important to know when double demerit points are in effect. In 2025, the double demerit points period will be:

• Easter long weekend: 17 – 21 Apr 2025

• ANZAC Day long weekend: 24 – 27 Apr 2025

• King's Birthday long weekend: 6 – 9 Jun 2025

• Labour Day long weekend: 3 – 6 Oct 2025

• Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day: 24 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026

These are the major periods where double demerit points will apply in 2025. So if you’re planning on driving during any of these weekends, make sure you’re extra cautious behind the wheel!

How Long Do They Last?

Double demerit points are applied for offences committed during the specified period (like Easter or ANZAC Day). However, the double demerit points don’t stay on your license forever. They’ll remain on your record for three years from the date of the offence. This means that even after the double demerits period ends, the points will still count toward your total demerit points tally for the next three years.

If you accumulate 13 or more demerit points within this period (depending on your licence type), you could face a suspension. So, it’s worth being extra careful when driving during double demerit periods!

Other Useful Info

• What offences attract double demerit points? Common offences like speeding, driving without a seatbelt, or using a mobile phone while driving will all attract double points during this period.

• What happens if you accumulate too many points? If you collect 13 or more demerit points in three years (depending on your licence type), you risk losing your licence for a period of time. So, it's always worth driving with extra care when double demerits are in place!

• Stay safe: Ensure you’re well-rested, take breaks when needed, and avoid distractions while driving. The double demerits are just one way the NSW Government is encouraging safe driving, so let's all do our part!

For more details, head over to Transport for NSW’s Road Safety Page. Safe travels, and enjoy the long weekend!

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