From October 15, 2025, drivers across Australia face a new red light penalty designed to curb risky intersection behaviour. The revised law makes it clear that any movement beyond the stop line after a red signal activates will incur a fine of around $410 and demerit points, even if the driver does not fully enter the junction. This update aims to reduce subtle breaches that contribute to intersection accidents, such as creeping forward or premature acceleration.
Why the Law Has Changed
Intersection safety remains a major concern for authorities in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Data from recent road safety reports shows that about 20% of urban crashes occur at traffic lights, often from minor infringements rather than blatant offences. Some motorists misjudge the law, thinking stopping slightly ahead of the white line or edging forward during a red light is harmless. The reform eliminates this grey area, ensuring consistent enforcement and reducing the risk to pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
The New Penalty in Detail
The base fine for this infringement is set near $410, but slight variations exist among states:
- New South Wales â $410 fine, 3 demerit points
- Victoria â $408 fine, 3 demerit points
- Queensland â $413 fine, 3 demerit points
- Western Australia â $410 fine, 2 demerit points
- South Australia â $409 fine, 3 demerit points
These penalties apply to any driver who moves beyond the stop line after the red signal turns on. Judging intentions is not part of enforcementâcamera systems will register even minimal forward motion. Repeat offences can lead to licence suspension.
How It Will Be Enforced
State authorities have upgraded intersection monitoring with advanced red light camera technology. These systems can detect âstop line breachesâ without requiring the vehicle to cross into the full intersection. Footage will confirm the exact position of the vehicle relative to the line, enabling automatic fines and points. Integration with licence databases ensures quicker processing, and fines will be issued without roadside police intervention in most cases.
In NSW, Transport for NSW will manage enforcement. Victoria uses VicRoads, Queensland the Department of Transport and Main Roads, WA relies on Main Roads WA, and South Australiaâs policing units will oversee compliance.
How Drivers Can Avoid the Fine
Avoiding the $410 penalty is straightforward:
- Stop fully behind the white stop line before the light turns red.
- Remain completely stationary until the signal turns green.
- Do not roll forward or âcreepâ into the intersection zone at any time in red phase.
- Consider using the handbrake for stability if stopped on a slope.
- Pay attention during amber lights to anticipate safe stopping and avoid entering the area prematurely.
Drivers should also be aware that newly installed cameras may operate without clear visible signs, meaning enforcement can happen even at minor suburban intersections.
Impact on Road Safety
Authorities expect the rule to significantly reduce driver hesitation and premature starts, both of which increase the chance of collisions. By clearly defining a breach as any movement beyond the line, drivers will have no legal ambiguity and will be compelled to maintain strict stopping discipline. This clarity is intended to improve pedestrian safety, keep turning lanes unobstructed, and lower accident rates in complex traffic light sequences.
Nationwide Consistency
Although fines vary slightly, the co-ordinated reform under the Australian Road Rules means motorists should expect consistent enforcement standards anywhere in the country. This update also aligns with other recent tightening measures, including a harsher $1,000 speeding penalty for driving 45 km/h over the limit and expanded testing requirements for drivers aged 70+. Together, these changes signal a broad national drive toward stricter traffic safety compliance in 2025.
Key Takeaway for Drivers
The red light reforms represent a proactive push against risky habits that previously slipped through enforcement loopholes. Motorists who consider creeping forward harmless must now adapt to this zero-tolerance approach. Staying fully behind the stop line isnât just the legal requirementâit protects you from hefty fines, points, and potential suspension while contributing to safer roads for all Australians.