Restrictions applying to learner drivers differ from state to state. A recent Brisbane Times article drew attention to current laws in Queensland for learner drivers, whereby when caught driving unsupervised, they lose one demerit point and incur a $160 fine. This has caused issues in Queensland for police as learner drivers have four points and are not deterred by consequences of driving unsupervised. This has led the Queensland State Government to tighten laws by increasing the demerits lost for driving unsupervised from one to four demerit points, closer in line with NSW driver laws.
Queensland transport authorities indicated that 1110 individuals caught by police per month were caught whilst driving unsupervised. Queensland Transport Minister Anastasia Palaszczuk highlighted the importance of learner drivers gaining supervised experience before gaining a provisional license.
However in NSW, where learner drivers are also provided with 4 points, there is already a system in place where, if caught driving unsupervised, the learner driver immediately has their license suspended. Further action may be taken, including possible court proceedings and if the individual is convicted, they may have their license disqualified.
Some additional requirements for NSW Learner drivers have been set out below including the relevant demerit points.
|
Requirement |
Consequence of non-compliance
|
|
Supervised by fully licenced driver |
Suspension of licence |
|
Must clearly display L plate outside of vehicle |
2 demerit points and $206 fine
|
|
Passenger restrictions: If under 25 must not drive between 11.00pm and 5.00am with more than one passenger under 25 |
3 demerit points
|
|
Ban on all mobile phone use |
3 demerit points, 4 demerit points if offence occurs in school zone and $265.00 or $353.00 fine respectively.
|
|
Must not tow another vehicle |
2 demerits and $206.00 fine |
Learner, Provisional and Full License holders need to be aware of just what restrictions apply to their license type.
For a comprehensive list of offenses, restrictions, fines and points see this link.
If you would like further advice on a traffic matter contact our office at (02) 9890 4755 or make an enquiry.





