NSW double demerits

We advise motorists that double demerits are in place in NSW and ACT for five consecutive days (17-21 April) over the 2025 Easter long weekend and four consecutive days (24-27 April) over the ANZAC day long weekend. 

Double demerit periods typically fall during holiday periods or over long weekends and are enforced by police. They apply throughout the whole of the start date, and end at midnight on the finish date shown in the table above.

Please drive safely and take extra care on the roads to protect yourself, your loved ones and all road users.

Drivers are reminded additional penalties can apply for certain offences committed in school zones.

What offences attract double demerits?

During double demerit periods, double demerit points apply for speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seat belt and riding without a motorcycle helmet.

Keep in mind that Mobile Phone Detection Cameras are active in NSW and the ACT and drivers caught using their phones during a double demerit period will be hit with a $410 fine ($544 in a school zone) and 10 demerits. 

Certain driving and parking offences attract an additional demerit point if committed in an operating school zone. Remember to always drive with care and attention through school zones. Be aware that failing to do so can come with heavy penalties heavy penalties.

You can check your demerit points here.

How long do demerits last for on record?

According to the NSW government, demerit points stay active for a three-year-period, starting from the date of the offence.

All licence holders start with zero demerit points. As a licence holder commits an offence that has a demerit point penalty, the points are then added to their driving record.

Is it double the fine?

Are there double demerits in other Australian states and territories?

Only New South Wales, ACT and Western Australia have double demerit points in place during holiday periods.

Double demerit points do not apply in Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania or Northern Territory at any time of year.

In Queensland, double demerit points do not only apply during holiday periods. However, people who repeatedly commit specific offences will receive double demerit points for the second or subsequent offence if the later offence was committed within 12 months of an earlier offence. This doesn’t just apply during holiday periods, but at any time of the year.