Australia has put in place severe new road rules in 2025 aimed at punishing jaywalkers with fines reaching 220AUD in most areas. As a result, road safety involving pedestrians has become a priority. Authorities highlight risky crossovers as a major concern over the last few years. Here’s what every pedestrian and road user should know.
What Is Jaywalking?
Many people cross unmarked streets and pedestrian crosswalks, cross the street ignoring road rules, and walk on the street 20 meters from a traffic light. Legally, people may cross when the “red man” sign is showing. Jaywalking is crossing the road without following the designated crosswalks, and violating pedestrian traffic rules. To many, it may feel like a harmless violation especially when the street is empty, however, it is risky and significantly increases the chances of a disruption in traffic and accidents.
Details of the 220AUD Penalty
Starting January 2025. every state in Australia will start imposing fines for jaywalking. They will be stationed in 220AUD increments as opposed to the previously set 81-120AUD. These fines will be for people crossing in the middle of traffic, in front of a red light, and for stopping pedestrians from crossing. 2,200AUD is the maximum a person will be charged for a court attended traffic violation.
What led to this Crackdown?
Authorities claim the new regulations come from concerns about urban pedestrian accidents, particularly in areas with heavy vehicle traffic. The hope is that stricter enforcement along with heftier fines will compel pedestrians to be more aware and considerate of their surroundings.
Additional Road Safety Measures in 2025
The crackdown on jaywalking is the first of many reforms to road rules planned for 2025. Other planned changes include other new reforms like:
- Increased fines for distracted walking, particularly for mobile phone use at crossings.
- New driver responsibilities termed “awareness zones” around crossings.
- Regulation of scooters and bicycles in pedestrian traffic zones.
- Increased fines in and around school zones for pedestrians and drivers disregarding rules.
Public Response and Debate
The hardline stance has ignited conversations around Australia. Critics from the law profession also pointed out that people have the option of challenging jaywalking fines in court if the situations justify it.
Short Table: New Jaywalking Rule Summary
| Offence | 2024 Fine | 2025 Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Jaywalking | $81–$120 | $220 |
| Crossing on Red Pedestrian | $150 | $220 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What constitutes jaywalking in Australia?
In Australia, jaywalking can include crossing the road outside of marked crosswalks, going against traffic crossing signals, or crossing the road within 20 meters of traffic lights.
Q2: Can these fines be challenged?
Sure, any person a fine has been issued to is allowed to challenge the fine in court. Only then can the judge consider the surrounding circumstances or an error in the fine’s issuance.
Q3: What other pedestrian rules changes took effect in 2025?
The most notable changes are the ones surrounding mobile phone use, which include new regulations for distracted crossing, and more rules around the use of personal electric scooters in the vicinity of busy pedestrian areas.
