In a clear indication that we are absolutely approaching an election, the NSW Government has announced they’re going to refund fines issued to drivers for ‘low level offences’. But only after the election.
“A re-elected Liberal and Nationals Government” the press release begins “will waive the fines on a range of minor driving offences for motorists who have a three year clean driving record.”
The proposal would mean that from 3 April, and only if the conservative coalition is re-elected, eligible motorists would be able to apply to have the fine waived for low level offences including:
- speeding offences under 10km/hr,
- driving in a bus or transit lane,
- ignoring a no left or right-hand turn sign,
- failing to stop at a stop sign,
- not displaying L or P plates, and
- seatbelt offences involving a single passenger over 16 years.
School zone, heavy vehicle, red light, mobile phone and speeding offences above 10km per hour will not be eligible under the scheme given the serious safety risks involved.
The proposal is being pitched by a congaline of Liberal and National leaders as a measure that both increases road safety, by encouraging people to not get driving offences for the long term, and a cost of living savings measure, “striking the right balance” according to Premier Dominic Perrottet.
In 2021, there were 227,500 fines issued for low level offences to motorists with a three year clean driving record, totalling $39.2 million in fines.
The announcement came one day after Labor announced its policy to reward good drivers by allowing them to expunge a demerit point.
Both policies have been received with skepticism and criticism, especially relating to the irony that both the good driver rewards policies only reward drivers that have done something wrong.
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