What you should know about double demerits this weekend

NSW Police has urged drivers to exercise caution on the roads this Australia Day long weekend, warning that even interstate motorists will be penalised with double demerit points if they are caught doing the wrong thing.

From 12:01am today (Friday, January 24) to 11:59pm on Monday (Jan 27), police in NSW, ACT and WA will be enforcing double demerits for any speeding, seat belt, motorcycle helmet and mobile phone offences.

In NSW, the scheme will equate to a 10-demerit point/$344 penalty for motorists caught using their mobile phone, or a six-demerit point/$344 penalty for not wearing a seatbelt during the four-day blitz.

Speaking with carsales.com.au, a NSW Police spokesperson confirmed that interstate residents driving in NSW will also be subject to the same double-demerit penalties for speeding, seatbelt, motorcycle helmet and mobile phone use as well.

“To ensure everyone enjoys the long weekend safely, police will be out in the community focusing on alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour. Anyone acting inappropriately will be dealt with swiftly and face the full force of the law,” NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb said.

“If you’re planning on having a drink, remember the coveted national culture of ‘mateship’ – look after your mates and drink in moderation.”

NSW, ACT and WA are the only Australian states to enforce double demerits on public holidays including Australia Day.

Queensland also has double demerits, but the scheme only applies to drivers who repeatedly commit specific offences, usually within 12 months of each other.