Double Demerits in Place for the King’s Birthday
Planning to hit the road this King’s Birthday long weekend? Double demerits will be in place across NSW and the ACT from Thursday 6 June to Sunday 9 June 2025.
This period of heightened enforcement is part of an annual road safety strategy coordinated by Transport for NSW and supported by NSW Police and the ACT Government. These measures aim to reduce the number of road incidents during holiday periods when traffic volumes increase and accident risk is higher.
Drivers can be penalised with double demerit points for common offences like:
Speeding
Illegal mobile phone use
Not wearing a seatbelt
Riding without a helmet
Fines remain the same, but demerit points add up fast—so if you’re already close to your limit, one mistake could cost you your licence. According to the NSW Government Demerits Guide, provisional drivers and those on good behaviour licences are especially vulnerable during double demerit periods.
Data from Transport for NSW shows that long weekends consistently see a spike in high-risk driving behaviour, including speeding and mobile phone offences. The double demerit scheme, though controversial in some circles, has been credited with reducing repeat offences and improving short-term compliance.
If you’ve been issued a fine or are facing the risk of suspension, our team at Jameson Law can advise you on your options and next steps.
We understand how easily a minor mistake can spiral into a major setback. Losing your licence can affect your job, your family obligations, and your mental health. That’s why it’s essential to get advice early—before deadlines expire or appeals become more difficult.
What Offences Are Included in Double Demerits?
While the most common offences penalised during double demerit periods are speeding and illegal phone use, the list is broader than most drivers realise. It also includes:
Failure to wear a helmet while riding a bike or motorcycle
Seatbelt offences for both drivers and passengers
Not restraining children correctly in an approved child seat
According to Service NSW, these infractions can double your current demerit penalty instantly. For example, not wearing a seatbelt typically results in 3 demerit points—but during this period, it will cost you 6. That could push some drivers over their limit, triggering licence suspension or cancellation.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Provisional (P1 and P2) licence holders are at the greatest risk during double demerits. Their allowable point limit is much lower—4 and 7 points respectively. That means even a single mobile phone offence, normally worth 5 points, can result in immediate licence loss during a double demerit period.
Drivers on good behaviour bonds, those with previous suspensions, or those employed in delivery, logistics, or transport roles must also take extra care. Losing a licence—even temporarily—can have severe financial consequences. If you fall into one of these categories, consider reading the NSW Penalties and Offences Guidelines to understand your risks better.
Options If You’ve Been Fined or Lost Points
If you’ve received a fine and are facing licence suspension due to accumulated demerits, there are several legal avenues available:
Apply for a good behaviour licence through Service NSW
Dispute the fine in Local Court
Request a review based on mitigating circumstances
Each option has time limits and legal implications. Jameson Law can help you understand the most strategic approach, draft submissions, and represent you in court if necessary. We’ve helped thousands of clients retain their licence or reduce penalties through structured advocacy.
Stay Safe and Informed
Ultimately, the best way to avoid trouble this weekend is to drive safely, follow all road rules, and assume that any minor slip-up could result in double points. Check your current points at Service NSW’s demerit point checker and don’t drive fatigued or distracted.
Police presence will be strong across major highways, regional roads, and near holiday hotspots. Random breath testing (RBT) and mobile phone detection cameras will also be in heavy use, so don’t assume you won’t get caught.
If something does go wrong—whether you’re fined unfairly or have concerns about how your offence was recorded—get in touch with Jameson Law immediately. Acting fast can help you preserve your legal options and potentially avoid suspension.
Call 1800 324 324 today or visit jamesonlaw.com.au to get clear advice before it’s too late.
