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We already know Australia’s states and territories aren’t equal when it comes to public holidays – but the differences don’t stop there. They also extend to first home buyer grants, penalty rates, pet registration rules and more serious things like speeding fines.
Driving over the speed limit is one of the most common traffic offences in Australia, but the penalties vary greatly between states and territories. This means the same infringement could cost you hundreds more, depending on where you are.
South Australia imposes the harshest fine for minor speeding offences, with penalties starting at $469 and three demerit points for exceeding the limit by between ten and 20 kilometres per hour. Meanwhile, the Northern Territory is the most lenient, with a $150 fine and one demerit point.
For major infringements of more than 45 kilometres per hour over the limit, NSW imposes the highest fine at $3,054, plus six demerit points. That’s more than triple the Northern Territory, where penalties start from $1,000, plus six demerit points.
Most Australian states and territories also enforce automatic licence suspensions for major speeding offences, typically ranging from six to twelve months. These differences in penalties also extend to crimes such as driving without a seatbelt, using a mobile phone or driving under the influence.
You can see how your state or territory fares for speeding below.
