Australia’s new driving law, imposing a $561 fine for drinking beverages while driving, is part of a broader effort to reduce distractions and enhance road safety. The law applies to all drivers and is expected to reduce the number of accidents caused by distractions from handling drinks. With penalties varying by state, it’s important for drivers to stay informed about the new rules and adjust their habits to ensure compliance.
Australia has introduced a new driving law effective 1st October 2025, imposing a $561 fine for consuming coffee, tea, or any other drink while behind the wheel. The legislation aims to reduce distractions and improve road safety by discouraging drivers from eating or drinking while driving.
Why the New Law Was Introduced
Drinking beverages like coffee or tea while driving can cause distractions that may lead to accidents. Spilling a drink or trying to manage it while driving diverts attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of dangerous situations. As part of its ongoing efforts to improve road safety, the Australian Government has introduced this law to prevent such distractions.
According to road safety experts, even brief moments of distraction, such as adjusting a drink or handling a spill, can significantly impair a driver’s ability to react to hazards.
Key Details of the $561 Fine for Drinking While Driving
From 1st October 2025, drivers across Australia will face a $561 fine if caught drinking beverages while operating a vehicle. The law covers any drink, including coffee, tea, soft drinks, and other beverages. The fine applies to both public roads and highways, and it can be issued if authorities determine that the act of drinking caused a distraction or loss of control.
What Qualifies as a Violation?
- Handling a cup or bottle while driving.
- Spilling a drink, causing distraction.
- Taking your eyes off the road to manage a drink.
If any of these actions are observed by law enforcement, the driver can be issued a fine and, in some cases, points on their license, depending on the severity of the distraction.
Penalties and Offences Under the New Law
The penalties for violating the new driving law vary by state, but the $561 fine is the minimum penalty for consuming drinks while driving. In some states, additional consequences may apply, including:
- Loss of demerit points: Drivers could lose points on their driving license, depending on the severity of the offence.
- Increased fines: In certain states, the fine can escalate if the distraction leads to a traffic incident or near-miss situation.
State-Specific Penalties
- New South Wales (NSW): A $561 fine and three-month licence suspension for serious distractions, such as spilling a hot beverage.
- Queensland: A $575 fine along with three demerit points for any distraction, including drinking.
- Victoria: A $387 fine and three demerit points for driving without due care, applicable if eating or drinking is considered to impair the driver’s focus.
Public Reactions to the New Driving Law
The introduction of the $561 fine for drinking beverages while driving has garnered mixed reactions from the public. While some support the law, citing concerns about safety, others argue that it is overly restrictive.
Critics point out that many drivers are accustomed to drinking coffee or tea during their daily commute, and the new law could penalize everyday behaviors. However, road safety advocates stress that even seemingly minor distractions can cause serious accidents, especially in high-traffic areas or during peak driving hours.
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Expert Insights on Driver Distractions
Road safety experts have long pointed out that distractions—whether from phones, food, or drinks—are a leading cause of accidents. Dr. Emily Foster, a road safety researcher at the University of Melbourne, said, “Small distractions can lead to significant accidents. Managing food or beverages while driving takes attention away from the road, and in seconds, a serious accident can occur.”
Avoid the Fine and Stay Safe
To comply with the new law and avoid the $561 fine, experts suggest the following steps:
- Drink before driving: Have your coffee or tea before you start your trip or during planned stops.
- Use travel mugs with secure lids: If you must carry a drink, use spill-proof mugs to minimize distractions.
- Take breaks: If you’re on a long journey, make regular stops to drink, eat, and stretch your legs.
Staying mindful of these simple actions can help keep the roads safer and avoid penalties.
