Navigating Australia's Regulations for Using Mobile Phones and Portable Devices While Driving
As of 2023, Victoria has implemented stringent mobile device rules for drivers to ensure road safety. These rules, enforced since March 31, 2023, carry significant fines and potential legal consequences for violations.
Mobile Phone Use Prohibited for All Drivers
Both fully licensed and learner drivers are prohibited from using mobile phones or similar portable electronic devices while driving. This ban includes holding the phone, even if it's off, sending or viewing messages, and using functions such as the camera or internet browser.
Zero Tolerance for Learner and Probationary Drivers
Learner and probationary (P-plate) drivers face a zero-tolerance policy for any phone use, including hands-free or mounted device use. Fully licensed drivers can use hands-free and mounted devices, but only for making or receiving calls, navigation, and playing audio using hands-free or voice control functions.
Penalties for Breaching Mobile Phone Rules
Breaching these mobile phone use rules can result in fines of up to 10 penalty units. Automated mobile phone detection cameras, using AI technology, are widely deployed to identify offenders and capture clear images of violations. These may lead to infringement notices with supporting evidence available online.
Failure to pay fines may result in increased penalties or court actions, including an arrest warrant. The government prioritizes enforcement of these rules due to the high risk of causing crashes and the aim to reduce road injuries and fatalities.
Recommendations for Safe Mobile Phone Use
If a message or text needs to be sent, drivers should pull over to a safe location before doing so. All drivers must not look at a mobile or wearable device being operated by a passenger. If a fully licenced driver must use a phone, using a hands-free device or bluetooth technology is recommended.
New Road Rules in Victoria
In Victoria, new road rules regarding mobile device use while driving were introduced in 2023. Fully licenced drivers can use voice controls to operate audio players or receive phone calls on wearable devices, but not for navigation or any other purpose.
Learner, P1, and P2 drivers are not permitted to use voice controls or touch wearable devices for any purpose while driving. RACV Car Insurance helps protect vehicles from loss or damage.
- Leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, automated mobile phone detection cameras monitor the use of portable electronic devices, issuing penalties for violations.
- The growth in technology has led not only to advancements in road safety systems but also a shift towards incorporating mobile phones as a part of a safer lifestyle while driving in Victoria.
