Driving with a mobile phone in Australia
Using a mobile phone while driving is one of the easiest ways to have an accident, and using a phone while driving is illegal in Australia.
Read on to find out why.
With a large number of mobile phone users in Australia, and the high-speed addition of new in-vehicle communication systems, instances of distracted driving have become far too common. Studies have shown that hand-held—and even hands-free—mobile phones can cause major distractions for drivers, and significantly increase the risk of traffic incidents, including fatal crashes. In an attempt to reduce this, Australia has very strict laws regarding the use of mobile phones while in a car.
Why shouldn’t I use my phone whilst driving?
Those who use a mobile phone, whether hand-held or hands-free when driving:
become disoriented and unaware of road conditions,
suffer from impeded reaction time, taking longer to brake and process information,
may not be able to manage proper lane position or a safe speed,
are more prone to enter risky gaps in traffic,
are more prone to tailgate the vehicle in front,
become more stressed.
Therefore, drivers who use mobile phones whilst driving are four times more likely to be involved in a crash. This risk applies to use of both hand-held and hands-free devices, as the issues are rooted in the mental distraction and divided attention of the driver. Because of this, the states and territories across Australia have outlawed mobile phone use for drivers — even when the car is not moving — and may penalise passengers for mobile phone use where distracting conduct is identified.
Can I take calls whilst driving if my phone is on loudspeaker in my lap?
No. It’s illegal to have your mobile phone touching any part of your body, except when passing it to a passenger. You can be fined and docked demerit points when caught using your phone whilst driving. You may be permitted to use your mobile phone only if the device is secured in a commercially designed holder that is fixed to the vehicle and does not obscure your view of the road. Alternatively, hands-free methods such Bluetooth and voice activation may also be allowed.
What are the fines for illegal use of mobile phones?
All drivers are encouraged to refer to the laws applicable to the state or territory they are driving in. This will clarify what is and isn’t permitted regarding mobile phone use in the specified jurisdiction.
Helpful links for each state and territory and their regulations along with indicative fines as at August 2025 can be found below:
Australian Capital Territory: $548 to $674 and 3 to 4 demerit points.
New South Wales: $423 to $562 and 5 demerit points
Northern Territory: $500 and 3 demerit points
Queensland: $1,251 and 4 demerit points
South Australia: $556 and 3 demerit points
Tasmania: $410 and 3 demerit points
Victoria: $577 and 4 demerit points
Western Australia: $500 to $1,000 and 3 to 4 demerit points
