Australia’s road safety authorities have issued a timely reminder to pedestrians, warning that a common but often overlooked mistake could now cost offenders a $61 fine. The penalty applies under existing traffic rules, but police are highlighting it again as part of a broader campaign to make roads safer.
Pedestrian Safety in the Spotlight
While drivers are usually the focus of traffic enforcement, the new reminder places attention squarely on pedestrians. Authorities stress that road safety is a shared responsibility, and people walking are just as accountable under the road rules as those behind the wheel.
The $61 fine applies to individuals who cross the road illegally, such as stepping onto the street at a point where it is not designated as safe. This includes crossing too close to traffic lights, ignoring pedestrian crossings, or walking against signals. These behaviors not only risk the individual’s safety but also create hazards for motorists who may not expect sudden pedestrian movement.
The Specific Offence
According to state road regulations, pedestrians must not cross within 20 metres of a marked crossing unless they are using it. Breaching this rule is considered jaywalking and attracts a $61 penalty. Many people are unaware of how strictly the law defines safe road-crossing points, which is why incidents continue to occur.
Police and transport departments have pointed out that the rules are not about penalising people unnecessarily, but about preventing accidents. Data shows that pedestrian-related crashes frequently occur in areas where people cross outside marked spots. Even in lower-speed zones, such incidents can lead to serious injury.
A Preventable Risk
Authorities have stressed that the fine isn’t designed to be a revenue measure but a deterrent. Research from various road safety bodies reflects that when pedestrians cross properly at designated points, their risk of being struck by a vehicle drops significantly. Motorists are trained and more alert near crossings or traffic lights, whereas stepping onto the road elsewhere can easily catch drivers off guard.
Road safety experts note that pedestrian fatalities and injuries often rise in periods of heavy movement, such as evening rush hours and around entertainment precincts. People running for public transport or choosing shortcuts tend to disregard safe crossing practices. The $61 penalty serves as a financial reminder to think twice before attempting risky moves.
Shared Responsibility on Roads
The campaign also underscores that drivers and pedestrians must work together. While motorists are expected to give way at crossings and obey speed limits, pedestrians are required to follow lawful crossing rules. The balance is intended to create predictability on roads, reducing the chances of confusion that can trigger accidents.
Authorities encourage better planning among pedestrians, recommending that people allow time to walk the extra distance to a crossing rather than stepping out into the road. For drivers, the message is to remain alert, especially near bus stops, schools, and shopping strips where pedestrian traffic is higher.
Message to the Public
The $61 fine may seem minor, but police have expressed that it carries a much larger purpose. Road accidents involving pedestrians have long-term consequences for families and communities, and preventing even one incident is considered a success.
With the reminder issued, all Australians are being urged to respect road rules whether behind the wheel, on a bike, or on foot. Walking may be the simplest form of transport, but it comes with rules designed to keep everyone safe.
