Australian drivers are being urged to pay closer attention to a rule many still overlook, with authorities warning that failing to indicate properly when turning or changing lanes can lead to hefty fines. Across several states, the penalty for neglecting to signal can be as high as $678, alongside demerit points that can impact a driver’s record.
The rule may seem basic, but road safety experts argue it is one of the most important. Indicators signal intent, reduce uncertainty, and give other drivers and pedestrians time to react. Failing to comply not only risks collisions but also places a financial burden on motorists caught breaking the law.
Why Signaling Matters
For traffic authorities, the issue is not minor—it is central to preventing accidents. Transport for NSW has consistently highlighted that improper or forgotten use of indicators contributes to lane-change crashes and intersection collisions. In Queensland and Victoria, similar warnings are being reinforced through roadside campaigns.
Road safety specialist John Eacott explained that indicators are a “silent language on the road,” one that can prevent confusion and save lives. “When a driver doesn’t signal, they leave everyone else guessing,” he said. “That’s not just frustrating—it can be deadly.”
Penalties by State
While the maximum fine is cited at $678 in some jurisdictions, actual penalties vary between states and territories. In New South Wales, failing to indicate when turning or changing lanes carries a fine of $272 and two demerit points. In Queensland, the fine is $464, while in Victoria, drivers can face up to $370. Western Australia and South Australia both impose penalties in the $200–$300 range.
However, where $678 comes into play is in compounded offences or circumstances where a driver endangers others by neglecting road rules. Police and road safety regulators note that penalties can rise if the offence is coupled with other breaches, such as reckless driving.
Everyday Situations Leading to Fines
| Common Mistake | Details & Penalties |
|---|---|
| Failing to signal long enough before turning | Drivers must signal well before turning or lane changing; fines vary from $250 to $370 |
| Not signaling at roundabouts | Must signal when entering and exiting roundabouts; NSW fine $410 + 3 demerit points |
| Forgetting to cancel indicator after turn | Carry risk of misleading other drivers; may attract fines or warnings |
| Not signaling when merging onto highways | Crucial to indicate merges; failure often leads to fines up to $500 |
| Roundabouts common breach sites | High police enforcement; immediate fines if caught by patrol or cameras |
Enforcement on the Rise
Police patrols, mobile cameras, and even dashcam submissions from the public are increasing the detection of such offences. Road policing teams are also conducting targeted operations near shopping centres and busy intersections, where signaling breaches tend to occur more frequently.
In metropolitan Sydney, uniformed officers recently carried out a two-day operation focusing on indicator use at inner-city roundabouts. More than 200 drivers were fined during the crackdown, with police describing the results as “concerning but not surprising.”
A Reminder for Drivers
Motoring groups such as the NRMA are supporting the awareness push, encouraging drivers to treat indicators not as an optional gesture but as a legal requirement. “It’s a simple action that keeps traffic flowing smoothly,” an NRMA spokesperson said. “Failing to do it is like breaking a handshake—you’re ignoring a social contract of road safety.”
For drivers across Australia, the message is clear: a moment of carelessness could cost up to $678, not just in financial penalties but in road safety consequences. Taking the time to signal every movement on the road is a small habit that prevents large risks—both for motorists and those sharing the road with them.
