In an effort to improve safety for emergency responders and roadside workers, the state of Victoria is introducing a new road rule effective from October 2025. Under the updated law, drivers must slow down to 40 km/h or less when overtaking stationary or slow-moving vehicles displaying flashing lights or alarms. These vehicles include emergency responders, tow trucks, roadside assistance vehicles, and incident response units. Failure to comply with this rule will result in heavy fines and demerit points. Hereâs everything you need to know about this important change.
Key Features of the New Victoria Road Rule
Victoriaâs new road rule is set to make roads safer for those who work in high-risk environments, such as emergency responders and tow truck operators. The law mandates that when driving near vehicles with flashing lights or alarms, drivers must reduce their speed to 40 km/h or below. Here are the key aspects of this law:
- Who is Affected?
The rule applies to all drivers on all types of roads, including urban streets and highways. Whether on Peninsula Link or Eastlink toll roads, or standard suburban roads, drivers are required to slow down when passing certain vehicles. The vehicles affected by the rule include:- Emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars with flashing lights.
- Tow trucks assisting with breakdowns or accidents.
- Roadside assistance and maintenance vehicles engaged in work on the roads.
- Incident response vehicles deployed to manage road issues.
- Vehicles traveling at 10 km/h or below, even if they are not stationary but are operating with flashing lights.
- Exceptions to the Rule
The law does not apply if the emergency vehicle is on the opposite side of a divided roadâi.e., if there is a physical median separating traffic. However, drivers are still urged to proceed with caution when passing these vehicles, even if the rule does not strictly require a speed reduction. - Enforcement and Penalties
The new road rule will be strictly enforced through increased roadside checks and camera surveillance. Drivers caught failing to slow down when required can expect heavy fines and demerit points. For most drivers, the fine for failure to comply with this rule is $961 and 3 demerit points.
Penalties for Violating the New Road Rule
The penalties associated with the failure to slow down near emergency or roadside vehicles are serious and serve as a deterrent to ensure compliance. Hereâs a breakdown of the penalties:
| Offense | Fine (AUD) | Demerit Points | Applies To | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to slow near emergency or roadside vehicles | $961 | 3 | All motorists | October 2025 |
| Ignoring flashing lights on emergency vehicles | $740 | 2 | General drivers | October 2025 |
| Reckless driving near roadside workers | $1,100 | 4 | All vehicle drivers | October 2025 |
| Failure to obey traffic officers | $850 | 3 | Car and truck drivers | October 2025 |
| Repeat offenses within 12 months | $1,500 | 5 | Repeat offenders | October 2025 |
As shown in the table above, the maximum fine for failing to slow down near stationary emergency vehicles is $961, with a 3-point penalty. For those who ignore flashing lights from emergency vehicles, the fine is slightly lower, at $740 with 2 demerit points. In cases of reckless driving near roadside workers, fines can rise to $1,100, with 4 demerit points. Drivers who repeatedly violate the rule within a 12-month period face fines as high as $1,500 and 5 demerit points.
Why the Law Was Introduced
The introduction of this road rule is aimed at addressing a growing concern for the safety of workers on the roads. Emergency responders, tow truck operators, and roadside maintenance workers are at significant risk when performing their duties on busy roads. Many accidents have occurred due to drivers failing to slow down or notice flashing lights, leading to severe injuries and fatalities. This law is designed to ensure that these workers are given the necessary protection by reducing the speed of oncoming vehicles.
By slowing down, drivers help maintain a safe environment for these workers, allowing them to complete their tasks without the added danger of speeding vehicles passing too close by. The new rule also contributes to the broader effort of improving road safety across Victoria and, eventually, throughout Australia.
What Drivers Need to Know
As this law comes into effect, drivers must make sure they understand the importance of slowing down when approaching emergency or roadside vehicles. Here are a few points to keep in mind:
- Slowing down is not optional. While drivers may feel itâs unnecessary if theyâre far from the vehicle, the law is clear. If the vehicle has flashing lights or is stationary, reduce your speed to 40 km/h or less.
- Donât use lack of knowledge as a defense. Drivers caught ignoring this rule will not be excused based on a lack of awareness. Always be aware of flashing lights and prepare to slow down.
- Strict enforcement is in place. The use of cameras and additional roadside checks will make it easier for authorities to catch offenders. Compliance will be strictly monitored, and violations will not go unnoticed.
- Increased penalties for repeat offenses. Drivers who repeatedly violate the rule within 12 months could face significant penalties, so itâs essential to adhere to the new regulations.
The National Trend of Safer Roads
Victoriaâs new road rule is part of a broader national trend aimed at improving road safety for workers and pedestrians. Many other states and territories in Australia are implementing similar measures to protect roadside workers, and these changes may become standard across the country.
Final Thoughts
Victoriaâs new road rule requiring drivers to slow down to 40 km/h when passing stationary emergency vehicles or roadside workers is an important step toward making the roads safer for everyone. With the increased fines and demerit points, the law sends a strong message about the need for cautious driving in these high-risk areas. Drivers should be aware of the rules, comply with the new speed limits, and remember that the safety of workers on the road is just as important as their own safety. By following these new regulations, we can all contribute to a safer, more considerate driving culture.