Victoria Road Rule Changes from July 2025: What You Need to Know

Starting July 1, 2025, Victoria will introduce a range of updated road rules and penalties that will affect most drivers across the state. The goal is to improve safety, modernize enforcement, and align more closely with other parts of Australia. While some changes might seem familiar from other states, there are a few new elements that Victorians should pay close attention to.

Fines for common driving offenses have gone up. Using a mobile phone while driving now attracts a $700 fine and five demerit points. Not wearing a seatbelt will cost drivers $600 and six demerit points, while improper use of child restraints could lead to a fine of up to $1,000 and six demerit points. Repeat offenders may face license suspension and even tougher consequences.

Speed limits around stationary roadside vehicles are also changing. Drivers must now slow to 40 km/h not just for emergency vehicles, but also for roadside assistance teams, tow trucks, and breakdown services when they display flashing lights. This expansion of the 40 zone is designed to protect all people working near the road, not just police or ambulance staff.

Another major change is the move to electronic penalty infringement notices, or ePINs. Instead of paper fines, offenders will now receive their penalty notices via text message or email. The aim is to make the system faster, more transparent, and easier to track.

In a shift likely to affect thousands of young people, the minimum age for probationary driving in Victoria will drop from 18 to 17. This brings the state in line with most others in Australia and is expected to ease transport access for students, apprentices, and young workers.

Finally, a new driver education program will be introduced for high school students in Years 10 to 12. The course covers safe driving habits, hazard awareness, and even basic vehicle maintenance. The aim is to build a stronger safety mindset before teens get behind the wheel on their own.

Please note: The information in this post is based on the latest available updates at the time of writing. Rules, fines, and policies may have changed since publication. Please refer to official Victorian Government websites for the most current information.

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