From September 2025, Australian drivers who fail to slow to 25 km/h when passing roadside incidents or stationary emergency vehicles face a $1,648 fine and 4 demerit points. The updated road law is part of a nationwide reform designed to protect frontline workers such as police, ambulance crews, tow truck operators, and even stranded motorists receiving roadside help.
The 2025 Roadside Incident Rule
The rule requires motorists to slow to a maximum of 25 km/h when passing:
- Emergency vehicles with flashing lights
- Tow trucks or roadside assistance vehicles
- Marked breakdown vehicles assisting motorists
Key Details of the Penalty
- Fine amount: $1,648
- Demerit points: 4
- Start date: September 2025
- Repeat violations: Possible licence suspension or revocation
Previously, different states enforced variations of this law—some requiring 40 km/h, others 25 km/h. The 2025 reform now introduces uniform enforcement at 25 km/h nationally, removing confusion across state borders.
Why the Rule Was Introduced
Authorities say the rule change follows a rise in accidents involving roadside workers. Tow truck drivers, police, and paramedics often stand within metres of fast-moving traffic, placing them at high risk of being hit.
Reports from 2024 highlighted multiple near misses and incidents where workers were struck while assisting at breakdown sites or crash scenes. Police pointed out that slowing down just a few seconds could have prevented these avoidable tragedies.
Enforcement Across Australia
The fine of $1,648 is one of the stiffer traffic penalties in the country, reflecting the seriousness of the offence. State police patrols and highway divisions are under clear instructions to enforce the rule strictly.
Drivers should also expect:
- Increased roadside signage warning of the 25 km/h requirement.
- Awareness campaigns across TV and radio.
- No leniency for ignorance—claiming unawareness of the new law will not prevent enforcement.
Balancing Safety With Traffic Concerns
Some drivers have questioned whether reducing speed to 25 km/h on high-speed roads creates new dangers, such as sudden braking or traffic flow problems. Road safety officials addressed the concern by explaining that the restriction applies only to short approach and passing distances near flashing lights.
Government transport spokespersons stress the rule is about seconds of delay versus lives at risk. Slowing down briefly is a small inconvenience compared to the danger faced by workers.
Public Reaction
While many road safety groups and unions welcomed the reform, some motorists argued it inconveniences drivers in heavy traffic zones. Critics say strict enforcement on freeways could trigger driver frustration and sudden slowdowns.
Authorities insist the change is not about inconveniencing drivers but about instilling respect and care for people working roadside. Union leaders for tow truck operators and police associations have praised the new penalties as “long overdue.”
A Cultural Shift in Road Behaviour
By setting the penalty at such a high level, governments are aiming to induce a cultural shift in how Australians approach roadside safety. Drivers are expected to treat flashing lights not as a signal of inconvenience but as an immediate reminder to show caution, slow down, and keep both hands on the wheel.
The heavy fine and demerit loss demonstrate to the public that roadside safety is no longer negotiable—it is a matter of law and social responsibility.
Conclusion
The $1,648 penalty and 4 demerit points for breaking the 25 km/h roadside incident rule is one of Australia’s most significant traffic reforms of 2025. By creating a uniform national standard, the government has ended years of state-by-state confusion and placed greater focus on protecting lives.
For drivers, the change serves as a reminder that respecting roadside workers, slowing down, and exercising patience is not optional. With roadside accidents claiming far too many lives, taking a few extra seconds to slow down could make a life-saving difference.