Australia has introduced a new road safety measure in 2025 that imposes a $149 fine on drivers who fail to slow down to 40 km/h when passing a school bus with flashing lights. The move is aimed at protecting children during school pick-up and drop-off times.
New Penalty Targets School Bus Zones
From 2025, motorists across Australia are reminded that when they see a stationary school bus displaying flashing lights, they must reduce their speed to 40 km/h. Failure to do so will result in an on-the-spot fine of $149, along with potential demerit points depending on the state’s traffic regulations. Authorities believe this rule will significantly reduce the risks faced by children walking to and from buses.
Road safety experts say the introduction of this uniform penalty across jurisdictions is designed to eliminate confusion, particularly for drivers who regularly cross state borders.
Why 40 km/h is Critical
Government officials stress that children are among the most vulnerable road users, often unpredictable in their movements. By restricting motorist speeds to 40 km/h, the chances of survival in the event of a collision are greatly improved. According to national road safety statistics, the risk of a serious injury drops dramatically when vehicles travel at lower speeds.
Campaigners have welcomed the measure, noting that similar rules in school zones have already contributed to fewer crashes involving children. Extending this standard to school bus stops is seen as the next logical step.
Enforcement and Awareness
State and territory police forces have confirmed that mobile patrols and speed cameras will be used to enforce the new restriction. School buses will also be equipped with upgraded warning lights to give drivers clear notice when children are boarding or disembarking.
Transport departments are running awareness campaigns to remind motorists of the change, particularly targeting rural areas where school buses are a frequent part of daily traffic. Billboards, radio announcements, and digital ads are being rolled out ahead of the summer school term.
Community Reactions
The decision has received strong support from parent groups and school communities, who argue that no price is too high when it comes to the safety of children. However, some motorists have raised concerns about whether the fine is sufficient to act as a strong deterrent, suggesting that higher penalties may be necessary for repeat offenders.
Rural drivers also point out that sudden braking when approaching school buses on high-speed roads could create risks of rear-end collisions. Traffic authorities respond that better driver education and early visibility of flashing school bus lights should address these worries.
Broader Road Safety Push
The new $149 fine comes as part of a broader push by Australian governments in 2025 to curb road fatalities and injuries. Recent figures from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) show that pedestrian-related accidents, particularly involving children, remain a concern despite overall declines in national road deaths.
Authorities indicate that if the measure proves effective, it may be paired with expanded school zone monitoring and increased penalties for speeding near educational facilities.
