Beginning on October 22, 2025, the Australian residents will be surprised by a new law implemented to supervise traffic, as it is going to penalize drivers who drink coffee or other beverages during driving with a fine of 850 dollars. This is a drastic step to ensure that distracted driving is fought because according to the authorities, the issue causes many accidents and deaths every year. The large penalty is applicable in all states and territories of the country, which causes a widespread panic and discussion among not only commuters but also road safety specialists as well[1].
What Does the New Law Involve?
– The law does not permit drivers to drive whilst holding or drinking coffee and any other beverages.
– The penalty is given even to the passengers in the event of distracting the driver.
– The non-compliance may also impose demerit points (between 3 and 4 points in relation to state) in addition to the monetary penalty.
– The rule extends to any form of drinks whether hot or cold and the rule can be used regardless of the container type whether disposable cups, travel mugs or bottles.
Enforcement and Penalties
– The law will be enforced by police and traffic authorities with dashcams, roadside patrols, and AI-powered cameras that would be able to identify drivers who are involved in dangerous drinking habits.
– This is because the fine of 850 is consistent throughout all states such as NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia and there can be no exceptions or leniency.
– The issued points of demerit may lead to loss of the license in case they are accumulated.
– Recidivists can be charged with increasingly tougher punishments and also face court charges.
Social Response and Recommendation to Drivers
– There are mixed emotions on the announcement; most of the drivers believe that it is too much when it comes to a regular practice, and the proponents of road safety support the crackdown as a measure to curb accidents.
– It encourages drivers to complete drinks prior to departure or park up to have drinks.
– Cup holders or hands-free containers are not adequate to avoid punishment in the event that the driver is caught holding or actively drinking.
– Eating, applying make-up or using phones are all other distracted driving actions that are strictly prohibited under the same distracted driving framework.[2][1].
State by State Summary of Penalties
| State/Territory | Fine Amount | Demerit Points | Applies to Coffee? |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | $850 | 3 | Yes |
| Victoria (VIC) | $850 | 3 | Yes |
| Queensland (QLD) | $850 | 4 | Yes |
| South Australia (SA) | $850 | 3 | Yes |
| Western Australia (WA) | $850 | 3 | Yes |
FAQs
Q1: Does illegally drinking coffee in Australia in the year 2025 when driving a certain vehicle?
Yes, it will carry an equal fine of 850 countrywide and demerits points[1].
Q2: Are they subject to the penalty in case the driver is operating a travel mug or cup holder?
Yes, driving whilst holding or drinking of a beverage is not allowed regardless of the type of container[1].
Q3: What will happen to me when I am caught doing it several times?
The recidivism can result in the additional fines, demerit point, and even the court proceedings[1].
