ACT's Traffic Fines: A Comparison with the Rest of Australia
Canberra residents might feel like their wallets are under constant threat from traffic fines, but it could be worse. Insurance company iSelect has analyzed Australia-wide data on traffic fines, revealing some surprising insights.
Speeding Fines
The ACT is one of the priciest places in the country for minor speeding offenses. Exceeding the speed limit by 10-15 km/h costs drivers $335, compared to $149 in NSW, $254 in Victoria, $208 in South Australia, $153.75 in Tasmania, $100 in Western Australia, and $150 in the Northern Territory. Queensland is slightly more lenient at $333.
However, the ACT's fines increase significantly for more severe speeding violations. Driving 15-30 km/h over the limit incurs a $498 fine, while 30-40 km/h over results in a $700 penalty. The ACT's $1841 fine for 45 km/h or more over the limit is dwarfed by NSW's $3054, the highest in the nation.
Red Lights, Phones, and Seatbelts
Running a red light in the ACT costs $451, lower than NSW's $562, Queensland's $667, and South Australia's $573. Tasmania has the lowest penalty at $202. Using a mobile phone while driving attracts a $674 fine in the ACT, higher than NSW's $423, Victoria's $611, and Tasmania's $404, but lower than Queensland's $1251 and Western Australia's $1000.
Failing to wear a seatbelt or wearing it incorrectly results in a $574 fine in the ACT, with Queensland again recording the highest penalty at $1251, and NSW's fine at $423.
Less Common Offences
The ACT's fines for less common offenses are also notable. Driving with an unrestrained dog attracts a $3200 fine, more than five times the penalty for an unrestrained human. Queensland has the highest penalty at $8625, while the Northern Territory records the lowest at $100.
Smoking in a car with children under 16 results in an on-the-spot fine of $250, but can go up to $7500 in court. Penalties in Tasmania can reach $2400, and the Northern Territory magistrates can impose fines of up to $2980.
Unregistered and Uninsured Vehicles
Penalties for unregistered and uninsured vehicles are particularly harsh in the ACT. Driving an unregistered vehicle costs $700, while driving uninsured attracts a $1009 penalty. Compulsory third-party insurance is included in registration fees, so late renewals can result in both fines.
Queensland has the highest uninsured vehicle fine at $10,676, followed by South Australia at up to $10,000 and Western Australia at $8,000. Tasmania's uninsured fine is $3,440, while NSW's is $818.
A Fine Comparison
It's clear that traffic fines vary significantly across Australia. While the ACT may seem expensive for some offenses, it's not the worst-offender. The data highlights the importance of adhering to traffic laws to avoid costly penalties.
But here's a thought-provoking question: What if fines were based on income, like in Finland? In 2023, businessman Anders Wiklöf, 76, was fined €121,000 for driving 30 km/h over the speed limit, demonstrating the potential impact of such a system. It's a reminder that breaking the law can have serious financial consequences.
