Victoria will implement updated driver distraction laws starting March 31, according to the Andrews Government. These laws are aimed at reducing road trauma and keeping Victorians safe. With distraction cited as the cause of 11% of fatalities on the state’s roads, the government hopes that the new laws will lead to safer roads.
The updated laws will extend current legislation for mobile phone use to include modern technology, such as built-in infotainment systems and mounted and wearable devices like smartwatches, tablets, and gaming consoles. Additionally, the government will introduce AI-enabled mobile phone and seatbelt camera detection systems as part of a $33.7 million investment from the Victorian Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030.
The “high-resolution images” will detect vehicles in all conditions, including during poor weather or in low light. A three-month warning period will apply before infringement notices and demerit points are issued from the mobile phone and seatbelt cameras.
While the current penalty for using a mobile phone while driving in Victoria is a $555 fine and four demerit points, the cameras can also detect passengers without seatbelts and incorrect use of a seatbelt. Furthermore, the updated legislation will expand and clarify the law to cover an increase in built-in vehicle technologies, bringing Victoria in line with the Australian Road Rules.
Drivers will be required to park their vehicle to enter text, numbers or symbols, scroll media playlists, display text messages, social media, emails or photos, and watch movies, TV, video games, or other moving images. However, the legislation will allow drivers to briefly touch a system to accept or decline a phone call, play or stream audio, adjust volume levels, and use a navigation function.
The law has also been expanded to include wearable devices, including smartwatches, smart glasses, and motorbike helmet devices. L- and P-plate drivers in Victoria are not allowed to use a mobile device for any function while driving, including hands-free systems, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
The updated road rules will be enforced in Victoria starting from March 31, 2023. “Distraction is deadly – which is why we’re introducing these new road rules to protect the lives of Victorians,” said Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne.
