Double Demerits Are Back for Easter and So Are the Traffic Delays

With the Easter and Anzac Day long weekends finally here, Sydney drivers are being urged to take extra care on the roads during the most hectic and hazardous travel times of the year. With thousands of motorists expected to hit the road for getaways or to visit loved ones, authorities are reminding drivers to slow down and remain alert.

Double demerits for traffic violations in action across NSW

Double demerit points will be enforced in New South Wales, Western Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory from April 17-21 and April 24-27. This means harsher penalties for offences like speeding, using a phone while driving, and not wearing a seatbelt.

New data shows that more than a quarter of Australians plan to extend their holiday between the Easter and Anzac Day weekends, with nearly two-thirds of them travelling.

Authorities warn that the traffic surge will make driving more challenging, especially on unfamiliar regional roads.

“We’re expecting traffic to increase, particularly with school holidays starting and families taking longer breaks,” says Peter Khoury from the NRMA. “This will lead to more drivers on unfamiliar routes, including longer trips on regional highways.”

According to Khoury, recent wet weather in Queensland and New South Wales may cause hazardous road conditions, with many of them already damaged. Khoury emphasizes the importance of taking extra precautions during these conditions.

Stay alert and avoid “fatal five” this Easter weekend, says authorities

Authorities are also reminding drivers to plan ahead and avoid the “fatal five” factors: driving under the influence, speeding, driving while fatigued, distractions, and not wearing a seatbelt properly.

Queensland Police are ramping up operations to help drivers make safe choices. Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells reminds drivers, “Easter is a time for families to make lasting memories. We don’t want anyone’s holiday to end in tragedy.”

In states like Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory, double demerits won’t apply, but there will still be extra police patrols and the usual penalties for traffic violations.

Sadly, the Easter long weekend has seen a rise in fatalities in previous years, with 16 deaths in 2023 and 23 in 2024. Authorities are calling on all drivers to make safe choices so everyone can enjoy a safe and happy holiday.

For more information on your demerit points, check here.