Emma Pritchard

Motorists are being urged to remain vigilant when travelling on the roads in NSW and the ACT during the Christmas and New Year period with double demerits in place between December 20, 2024, and January 1, 2025.

First introduced in 1997, the double demerit point scheme applies to the following offences: speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seatbelt, and riding a motorcycle without a helmet.

Drivers are also being reminded that mobile phone detection cameras remain active in NSW.

Motorists caught using their mobile phones while double demerits are enforced will incur a $410 fine and 10 demerit points.

Prior to commencing their journeys during the Christmas and New Year period, motorists are also being encouraged to check weather forecasts and the latest traffic conditions by visiting www.livetraffic.com

Demerit points stay active on your licence for a three-year period, commencing from the date of the offence.