Australia is rolling out major driving law reforms in July 2025 to modernize its road safety policies. These changes target improved protection for roadside workers, updated licensing requirements, and clearer rules for emerging transport technologies like e-scooters. Every driver—from learners to seasoned motorists—needs to understand how these updates will affect daily driving routines.
Australia’s Driving Laws Are Changing July 2025
| Change | Details | Effective Date | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Victoria: Speed Limit Near Roadside Incidents | Drivers must reduce speed to 40 km/h when passing stationary roadside assistance vehicles with flashing lights. | 1 July 2025 | VicRoads |
| South Australia: Speed Limit Near Breakdown Services | Mandatory 25 km/h speed limit when passing stationary breakdown service vehicles with flashing amber lights. | 19 May 2025 | My Licence SA |
| New South Wales: Mobile Phone Use for P-Platers | P-plate drivers over 25 permitted to use mobile phones for navigation if securely mounted. | July 2025 | Transport for NSW |
| Victoria: Provisional Licence Age Lowered | Minimum age for obtaining a probationary licence reduced from 18 to 17 years. | July 2025 | VicRoads |
| Western Australia: Online Off-Road Vehicle Registration | Introduction of online registration system for off-road vehicles. | July 2025 | WA Department of Transport |
| South Australia: E-Scooter Regulations | Privately owned e-scooters permitted on roads without registration. | July 2025 | My Licence SA |
Key Changes by Region
Victoria: New 40 km/h Speed Rule Near Roadside Incidents
Drivers in Victoria must slow to 40 km/h when passing stationary roadside assistance vehicles flashing lights. This rule aligns with existing requirements for emergency vehicles and aims to reduce the risk to those working on or near active roadways.
South Australia: 25 km/h Near Breakdown Services
From May 2025, South Australian law mandates drivers to reduce speed to 25 km/h when approaching breakdown service vehicles with amber lights. This is meant to enhance worker safety during roadside interventions and aligns with protections already given to emergency services.
New South Wales: Relaxed Mobile Use for Older P-Platers
NSW drivers over 25 years old on provisional licences (P1 and P2) will be allowed to use a phone for navigation as long as the device is mounted and not handheld. This update reflects growing reliance on navigation apps while maintaining safety for younger or less experienced drivers.
Victoria: Provisional Licence Age Drops to 17
Victoria will lower the minimum age for getting a P-plate licence from 18 to 17. This shift brings Victoria in line with other Australian states and provides greater flexibility for young people needing independent transport for work or education.
Western Australia: Online Registration for Off-Road Vehicles
A new online system will simplify the registration process for off-road vehicles like quad bikes and trail bikes. The digital approach is expected to increase compliance and streamline access for recreational and rural users.
South Australia: Privately Owned E-Scooters Legalised
South Australia will legalize the use of privately owned e-scooters on public roads and shared paths, removing the requirement for registration or special permits. This is part of a broader national trend to integrate micro-mobility into urban transport solutions.
What Drivers Should Do Now
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Review your local state transport site for specific updates.
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If you’re a P-plater, understand the age-based rules around phone use.
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Watch for new roadside signage indicating updated speed zones.
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If using e-scooters or off-road vehicles, prepare for regulatory shifts and registration steps.
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Start discussions with learner drivers about the earlier licence age rules.
FAQ
Do these changes apply nationwide?
No. Each Australian state and territory has its own road authority and updates laws individually, though trends often overlap.
Can learner drivers still get their Ls at 16 in Victoria?
Yes. The age for a learner’s permit remains 16. Only the provisional licence age is changing to 17.
Are e-scooters allowed on footpaths?
Rules differ by state. In South Australia, e-scooters can be used on shared paths and some roads, but not traditional footpaths.
Will the speed limit near emergency vehicles also change?
No changes are being made to existing emergency vehicle speed limits. These updates add similar protections for roadside assistance and breakdown vehicles.
Is phone navigation allowed for all P-platers?
Only those over 25 on provisional licences in New South Wales are permitted to use phones for navigation, and only if the device is mounted.
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