Understanding how speeding fines work in New South Wales (NSW) is crucial for every road user. Recent data from Transport for NSW shows that fines issued from mobile speed cameras have fallen nearly 90 per cent since1 warning signs were returned to the roadside in late April 2023. This guide is tailored for drivers, motorcyclists, and any road user keen on navigating NSW roads responsibly. We’ll unravel the intricacies of speeding fines in NSW, exploring the implications of speeding offences, the detection methods employed, the demerit system, and the process of paying fines. This guide delves into the intricacies of speeding fines in NSW, it will help you navigate through the speeding fine landscape, equipping you with essential knowledge for a safer driving experience.
What is a speeding offence?
A speeding offence occurs when a vehicle travels above the designated speed limit. Beyond this basic definition, speeding is considered a serious offence when it compromises road safety, leading to more severe driving and legal repercussions. Road safety offices often stress on the repercussions of speeding, often repeating the fact that going just a little bit over the posted speed limit can lead to serious crashes resulting in permanent sever injuries and even fatalities.
A speeding offence in New South Wales occurs when a vehicle travels faster than the designated speed limit. Speeding amplifies the risk of crashes and exacerbates the severity of crash outcomes because the faster you are travelling:
– The distance it takes you to stop increase.
– The impact of a crash becomes more severe.
– The likelihood of death or severe injury escalates.
Speeding offences can range in severity, and the penalties vary accordingly. They can encompass fines, demerit points, licence disqualification, and in severe cases, imprisonment. The penalties are structured to reflect the seriousness of the offence and to act as a deterrent to prevent future infringements.
For serious speeding offences, you may have your licence suspended or disqualified, and If you are caught speeding by more than 45km/h over the speed limit, Police also have the right to impound your vehicle or confiscate your vehicle’s number plates.
The goal behind these penalties is multifold. They serve as a deterrent, aim to introduce a sense of responsibility among drivers, and underline the importance of adhering to speed limits to ensure road safety for all users.
Data from Revenue NSW2 indicates that there were over 1.4 million speeding offences between July 2021 and June 2022, bringing in more than $ 291 million to the NSW Government. This is an increase of around 40% on the same time, the previous year.
How is speeding detected in NSW?
Speeding detection in NSW mainly happens through three methods: speed cameras, mobile radar units, and police patrols. Over time, these methods have been fine-tuned to accurately spot and penalise speeding, which helps encourage drivers to stick to the speed limits, making the roads safer. The effort to enforce speed limits blends different technologies and strategies, all aimed at boosting road safety and making sure everyone follows the law. Below is a simpler explanation of the methods and gadgets used:
Radar Technology:
Radar, an acronym for Radio Detection and Ranging, is a cornerstone of speed detection in NSW. It uses electromagnetic waves to determine a vehicle’s speed by measuring the frequency shift of the returned signal.
Lidar Technology:
Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) uses laser light and can accurately measure the speed of individual vehicles even in heavy traffic.
Speed Cameras:
These cameras can be fixed or mobile, with fixed cameras being installed in high-risk areas and mobile units being deployed strategically to promote compliance with speed limits.
Mobile Radar Units:
Are portable radar devices used by law enforcement officers, allowing for flexibility in monitoring various locations and traffic conditions.
Police Patrols:
Officers can use onboard radar and Lidar equipment to monitor traffic speeds and take appropriate action when speeding offences are detected.
Aerial Speed Enforcement:
While not as common, aerial speed enforcement has been employed in NSW, where aircraft equipped with speed measurement devices monitor vehicles’ speeds over a stretch of road.
Average Speed Detection:
This method calculates a vehicle’s average speed by measuring the time taken to travel between two points.
Each of these methods and technologies cater to different traffic conditions and scenarios, underlining the comprehensive nature of speed enforcement strategies in NSW. This multi-pronged approach aims to foster a culture of compliance with speed limits, significantly contributing to the overarching goal of enhancing road safety.
Demerit points and fines by speeding offence in NSW
Speeding penalties vary based on how serious the offence is. They can range from fines and losing demerit points to losing your licence or even facing jail time. The more serious offences are when you drive more than 30km/h or 45km/h over the speed limit, or if you drive over 30km/h above the speed limit while your licence is suspended or disqualified. These situations can lead to heavier penalties like having your licence suspended or disqualified. If you’re caught speeding more than 45km/h over the limit, NSW Police can suspend your licence right there on the spot.
Here’s a breakdown of speeding offences for Class A Motor Vehicles, which are your typical cars or motorcycles. To learn more about vehicle classes, visit here.3
Class A Motor Vehicle
Exceed speed 10 km/h and under (other than a learner or provisional licence)
- Demerit points: 1
- Speeding fine: $137
Exceed speed over 10 km/h (other than a learner or provisional licence)
- Demerit points: 3
- Speeding fine: $316
Exceed speed over 20 km/h
- Demerit points: 4
- Speeding fine: $542
Exceed speed over 30 km/h
- Demerit points: 5
- Speeding fine: $1,036
Exceed speed over 45 km/h
- Demerit points: 6
- Speeding fine: $2,794
Summary of Class A Vehicle Speeding Offences
If you’re on a learner or provisional licence and you get caught speeding, you’ll be hit with at least 4 demerit points. Here’s what it means: if you have a Learner or Provisional P1 licence, any speeding offence will lead to at least a 3-month licence suspension and a fine. On the other hand, if you have a Provisional P2 licence and you’re caught speeding 30km/h or more over the limit, you’ll need to stick with your P2 licence for an extra 6 months for each offence, and you’ll also face a licence suspension. There are some special situations like speeding in a school zone, passing an emergency vehicle, or other driving offences related to school buses which are dealt differently and have their own set of penalties. To learn more about this visit here.4
Double demerit points for speeding in NSW
During particular holiday seasons or over extended weekends in NSW, double demerit points come into effect as a measure to promote safer driving practices amidst the increased traffic. This system magnifies the penalties for traffic offences during these identified periods, thereby incentivising individuals to exhibit extra caution while navigating the roads.
The intention behind this is to create a more controlled and orderly road environment, making journeys safer for everyone involved. By doubling the repercussions for reckless or unlawful behaviours, drivers are required to adhere strictly to road safety rules, which in turn, helps in reducing the likelihood of collisions and fostering a culture of responsible driving. Through this arrangement, the authorities aim to significantly minimise road mishaps and ensure smoother traffic flow, contributing to an overall safer and more enjoyable driving experience during these bustling times.
How to pay a speeding fine in NSW
Paying a speeding fine in NSW has been streamlined for convenience by Revenue NSW, offering multiple avenues for settlement to cater to individual preferences and circumstances.
1. Online Payment
Online platforms provided by Revenue NSW make it convenient to clear your fines from anywhere.
One of the primary methods is online payment, which is a quick and hassle-free option. By visiting the Revenue NSW website5, you can effortlessly navigate through the user-friendly interface to pay their fines. This online service is available round the clock, providing the flexibility to settle fines at any hour, from the comfort of one’s home or on the go.
2. Phone Payment
Individuals can also pay their fines over the phone by contacting Revenue NSW.
Alternatively, for those who prefer a more personal interaction or are not tech-savvy, fines can be paid over the phone on 13 77 88. A simple call to the provided contact number on the fine notice allows for a straightforward payment process, where assistance is available should any issues arise during the transaction. This method also allows individuals to seek clarity on any questions they might have regarding their fines or the payment process.
3. In-Person Payment
In-person payments are also available at Service NSW centres. This traditional method is ideal for individuals who prefer face-to-face interactions and seek to have a direct conversation with a representative who can guide them through the payment process. By visiting a Service NSW centre, you can also obtain instant acknowledgment of their payment, ensuring peace of mind that the fine has been duly settled. You can find your nearest centre here.6
Can I transfer my speeding fine and points to someone else?
Transferring a speeding fine along with the demerit points to another individual is allowed if that person was the driver during the offence. To facilitate this, a statutory declaration is needed, which is a formal statement affirming the truthfulness of the information provided, like the actual driver’s details. It’s important to complete this transfer within the specified time frame mentioned on the fine notice to avoid additional complications or penalties. Initiating this process promptly ensures a smooth transition of the fine and points, upholding the accurate enforcement of road safety regulations.
You can nominate another driver by visiting the NSW Government website.7
If you are electing another driver, just make sure you retaining a copy of the statutory declaration and any related correspondence is wise for future reference in case of any discrepancies or inquiries.
Can I appeal a licence suspension for speeding in NSW?
In NSW, people have the legal entitlement to appeal a licence suspension resulting from speeding offences. Initiating an appeal can be completed online using this process8. Some people may find that this process that might necessitate the assistance of a legal professional to navigate the procedural requirements effectively.
Once the appeal is filed, a Court date is set, during which the individual has the opportunity to present their case before a Magistrate. This Court appearance is a critical aspect of the appeal process, providing a platform for you to explain any extenuating circumstances surrounding the offence, and to potentially seek a reduction or the quashing of the suspension.
The outcome of the appeal can vary significantly based on the specifics of the case. For example, the Court may choose to uphold the original suspension, indicating that the initial penalty remains justified. Alternatively, the court might opt to quash (cancel) the suspension, effectively overturning the initial decision, or lessen the suspension period, offering a degree of leniency based on the circumstances presented. The Court’s decision hinges on various factors including the severity of the speeding offence, the individual’s driving history, and any other relevant circumstances. Therefore, being well-prepared and possibly seeking legal advice could be instrumental in navigating the appeal process and achieving a favourable outcome. If you want to learn more about this, and some of the things that you can do at Court that may help your appeal, you can attend one of our Traffic Offender Intervention Programs by registering here.9
Where does the money from a speeding fine go in NSW?
In NSW, the revenue collected from speeding fines is channeled towards the state’s Road Safety Strategy, illustrating a direct reinvestment of these funds into efforts aimed at bolstering road safety.
This strategy is geared towards a substantial reduction in road collisions, fatalities, and injuries. The funds are utilised in various ways including the maintenance and upgrading of road infrastructure, ensuring it meets safety standards which in turn, helps in preventing collisions. The funding also aids in the deployment of better signage, road markings, and other critical safety features that guide and inform drivers, thereby promoting safer driving practices.
Furthermore, the revenue supports educational campaigns and programs aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of speeding and other risky driving behaviours. By financing such initiatives, the government of NSW endeavours to foster a culture of safety and responsibility among motorists. Besides education, a portion of the fine revenue also supports law enforcement and other road safety operations which are crucial in ensuring compliance with traffic laws and regulations. Through strict enforcement, and with the backing of a well-funded road safety strategy, there’s a notable deterrence against reckless driving. Collectively, these efforts underscored by the revenue from speeding fines, work in synergy to create a safer driving environment in NSW, showcasing a responsible allocation of these funds towards a cause that benefits the entire community.
Book a driver education course with Road Sense Australia
Booking a driver education course with Road Sense Australia is a prudent step towards cultivating a safer driving habit and enhancing your understanding of the road rules, especially the implications of speeding and accruing fines in NSW.
Road Sense Australia has tailored road user education programs to address the needs of various road users. Among these programs are the Traffic Offender Intervention Program (TOIP)10 and the Driver Education Course (DEC)11. These programs are designed to provide insight into the consequences of traffic offences and fosters a better understanding of road safety, aiming to significantly reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
Investing time in these programs not only amplifies your road safety awareness but also places you in a better position to navigate the often busy and dynamic roads of NSW. The knowledge acquired from these courses is invaluable and is aimed at promoting a culture of safety and responsibility on the roads. Moreover, being educated on the implications of speeding and the importance of adhering to speed limits can significantly mitigate the risks associated with high-speed driving. By exploring the programs offered by Road Sense Australia, you are taking a proactive step towards contributing to a safer road environment for both yourself and the broader community.
If you wish to learn more about Road Sense Australia, or book into one of our program, you can visit www.roadsense.org.au or if you’d like to learn more about traffic fines in Queensland you can check out our blog here.12
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