School zones in Australia have been initiated in 2025 with two major traffic regulation reforms in the school zone to improve child safety and minimize accidents in the school zones. All the drivers working around the school areas should take note of these new rules to escape huge fines and penalties.
1. New Uniform School Zone Speed Limits
The speed limit in school zones has been harmonized across state and territory in Australia, with a standard speed of **30 40 km/h being used in both the active school time period during the day, generally:
– Morning: 7:00–9:00 AM
– Afternoon: 2:30–4:00 PM
The majority of the states have created zones of 40 km/h around the schools, though in high-risk communities and crossings with schools there are 30km/h limits implemented. The new regulations supersede a combination of disparate speed limits, which is consistent throughout the country.
2. Further Investigation and More Severe Punishments
The penalties against driving at fast speed in school areas have been improved considerably with the updates in 2025:
– High-speed offences fines in some regions such as New South Wales and Western Australia may be as much as $1,200.
– Demerit points on the drivers license- up to 5 points on them depending on the severity- and this becomes possible to a suspension of their license.
– More speed cameras and mobile radars on the roads close to schools during school hours.
– Flashing signs and pedestrian crossing alerts create new digital signs to enhance compliance and awareness of drivers.
Australian School Zone Changes Key Summary Table 2025
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Speed Limits | 30-40 km/h during school hours |
| Active Hours | 7:30-9:00 AM & 2:30-4:00 PM |
| Enforcement | Increased speed cameras and checks |
| Fines | Up to $1,500 and increased demerit points |
| Signage | Digital and reflective signs |
Additional Points
– Stiffer parking regulations have been put in place: There is no longer any two-way parking or halting at the yellow lines in school localities, and the penalty can be up to $300.
– Use of mobile phones during driving in school is not allowed during school hours and it is fined and demerited.
– School crossing guards and pedestrians have priority and the drivers should never neglect stopping when necessary.
FAQs
Q1: Are these speed limits applicable on day-to-day basis?
No, not during weekends and holidays, just during school days during designated hours.
Q2: How are speed zones marked?
Active school zones are well-marked with new digital signs and flashing lights.
Q3: What would happen in case I over speed in a school zone?
Fines of up to 1,200 dollars and demerit points are probable, probably leading to the suspension of the license.
