- Speed limits in Australia based on signs and default limits
- School zone speed limits and when they apply
- How speed limits are enforced
- Speeding fines and demerit points by state
Speed limits and speeding fines in Australia
Last updated on 25 February, 2026
Wondering what’s the speed limit while you’re on the road? Whether you’re driving locally or heading interstate, you can usually follow the speed limit signs. But did you know, rules and penalties vary depending on where you're driving.
Key takeaways:
What are the recent changes to speed limits in Australia (2025 – 2026)?
Road rules change over time. Here are some recent updates:
- South Australia: new 40 km/h time-based school speed limits are being added at selected school crossings on busy roads. The rollout will be done by late 2026.
- Enforcement: some states are rolling out more cameras that can spot if you’re not wearing your seatbelt or using your mobile phone. How this works differs between states, so check local guidance before you travel.
Penalties for speeding
No matter where you are in Australia, it’s illegal to drive above the speed limit. The penalty will depend on how fast you drive over the speed limit. Along with a speeding fine and demerit points, penalties can also include automatic licence suspensions, especially where the speed limit is exceeded by more than 30km/h.
Check the table below to see the minimum and maximum penalties by location. These penalties apply to light vehicles such as cars, and do not apply to large trucks, which have harsher penalty schemes.
Up to date on speeding laws but need a refresher on other driving rules and regulations? Find out the penalties for using your phone at the wheel and how the rules vary by state and territory.
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Disclaimer
This article has been prepared by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL234708 ("Allianz"). In some cases, information has been provided to us by third parties and while that information is believed to be accurate and reliable, its accuracy is not guaranteed in any way.
Any opinions expressed constitute our views at the time of issue and are subject to change. Neither Allianz, nor its employees or directors give any warranty of accuracy or accept responsibility for any loss or liability incurred by you in respect of any error, omission or misrepresentation in this article.
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