Australian drivers are being warned about tougher penalties for mobile phone use while stopped at traffic lights. Under new rules introduced by state transport authorities, anyone caught handling their device at a red light will face a fine of $873 along with 4 demerit points. Officials stress that distraction does not only occur while a car is in motion but also when stationary at intersections, where momentary lapses have been linked to crashes. The stricter rules are intended to fill the gaps in earlier legislation, where some drivers assumed that being stopped gave them the green light to reach for their phones.
Why the Crackdown Was Introduced
The decision to impose much higher fines comes after repeated findings that mobile phone use at intersections significantly increases the risk of road accidents. Studies from road safety experts show rear-end collisions at traffic lights often occur because drivers fail to notice signals changing or traffic starting to move. Even “small” lapses of attention at intersections have ripple effects, frustrating other motorists and sometimes causing dangerous pile-ups.
Authorities stated that new enforcement was necessary to address what many drivers misunderstood—that temporary stopping at a red light is not an opportunity to make phone calls, check social media, or scroll through apps. The crackdown was introduced to restore driver focus at one of the most critical points on the road network.
Mobile Phone Detection Cameras
Unlike older methods of traffic policing, this new rule is highly enforceable thanks to technology. Police forces and transport bodies across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland have rolled out advanced phone detection systems. These systems use automated cameras fitted with high-resolution sensors capable of capturing clear images of drivers’ hands, faces, and mobile devices.
Importantly, these cameras function 24/7 and do not require police patrol cars to catch offenders. They are target-based, scanning intersections for likely violations and documenting clear photographic evidence that can be upheld in court if contested. Since their introduction, authorities report hundreds of thousands of drivers have already been penalised, with a substantial share of these violations taking place while cars were stationary at red lights.
What Counts as an Offence?
Some drivers argue that touching or holding a phone briefly while stationary is harmless. However, authorities have reinforced that any physical interaction with a handset while at the wheel counts as an offence. This includes:
- Sending or reading text messages.
- Answering or making phone calls by hand.
- Browsing apps, emails, or social media.
- Entering an address into a navigation app manually.
- Simply holding the device while waiting at a red light.
The rules are clear: the only acceptable alternatives are properly mounted devices being used in hands-free mode or fully controlled by voice commands. Picking up or operating the phone with fingers while behind the wheel, even when stationary, is illegal.
The $873 Penalty and Demerit Points
The new fine of $873 marks one of the largest penalties for a traffic offence in Australia, reflecting how serious distracted driving has become. In addition to the financial hit, drivers accumulate 4 demerit points, which can push many close to suspension limits.
Learner drivers and provisional licence holders are particularly vulnerable to losing their right to drive, as their point threshold is much lower. Repeat offenders also face harsher sanctions, such as suspension, mandatory education programs, insurance premium increases, and even long-term restrictions on their licence.
Public Awareness and Campaigns
Australian police and transport departments have stepped up their public awareness campaigns to ensure drivers are not caught unaware by these changes. Campaigns on radio, television, and digital platforms emphasize that using a phone at a red light is just as irresponsible as texting at high speeds.
One slogan repeated across multiple states declares: “Using your phone at the lights is still using your phone while driving.” Social campaigns highlight one of the most common frustrations—motorists stuck behind someone distracted at a traffic light, oblivious to the signal turning green. Beyond annoyance, officials stress this behaviour fuels dangerous situations in high-traffic zones.
Repeat Offenders and Insurance Consequences
Repeated offences under this law invite heavier penalties. Transport authorities have outlined that multiple infringements can lead to:
- Compounding demerit point losses, resulting in suspension.
- Increased car insurance premiums, as insurers classify offenders as “high-risk drivers.”
- Possible legal restrictions and loss of civic driving privileges in severe cases.
Insurers have already indicated that multiple phone-related offences can result in refusal of coverage, meaning financial liability for crashes rests entirely on the driver.
Closing Loopholes in Law
Prior to this crackdown, a major loophole allowed drivers to argue that they weren’t “driving” while waiting at red lights. The updated law explicitly eliminates this defence by clarifying that drivers are considered “in charge of the vehicle” at all times when behind the wheel, regardless of vehicle motion.
By closing this loophole, authorities aim not only to punish offenders but also to shift public perception. Picking up a phone, even for a few seconds, has the potential to produce consequences far beyond a simple fine.
Expert Opinions and Future Steps
Road safety experts largely back the policy, highlighting how distraction at intersections, no matter how brief, undermines road safety at large. Experts have suggested investing further in technology such as adaptive signals or better intersection signage, but stress that human attention remains the essential factor.
Authorities are expected to increase both enforcement and education efforts in the coming years, ensuring drivers accept that responsible behaviour extends beyond simply moving vehicles.
Conclusion
The new $873 fine and 4 demerit point penalty for mobile phone use at red lights sends a firm message to Australian drivers: distractions have no place on the road. Whether a car is moving or stationary, attention needs to remain on surroundings, signals, and conditions. With growing reliance on mobile technology, closing loopholes and enforcing stricter penalties has become a necessity.
For drivers, the lesson is simple—leave the phone alone. The risks are far greater than a fine, and the consequences can be devastating for yourself and everyone sharing the intersection.