Attention on the markings on the road is critical as crossing the lines may now cost Australian motorists ‘over $400’ with the new national traffic update. Primary measures with crossing lines divide lines on certain roads were designed to minimize reckless driving overtaking, and generally encourage more road discipline on heavily laden roads.
Dividing Line Rules & Penalties (Australia 2025)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Dividing Lines Defined | Lines (single or double, solid or broken) separating traffic moving in the same or opposite direction. |
| Common Mistake | Many drivers cross or “leap over” single or double unbroken lines, which is prohibited. |
| Legal Rule | It is strictly forbidden to cross solid dividing lines, except in very specific, safe conditions (e.g., avoiding obstacles if permitted). |
| New Penalty (2025) | $423 fine + demerit points (varies by state). |
| Rationale | Authorities highlight an increase in accidents due to unsafe overtaking and dividing line breaches. |
| Official Guidance | – Only overtake when no oncoming traffic is present. – Ensure clear visibility before overtaking. |
| State Authorities Reporting Concerns | – NSW (Transport for NSW): Data shows accidents linked to dividing line offences. – Victoria & Queensland Police: Report rise in infringement notices for lane breaches and unsafe overtaking. |
| Purpose of Enforcement | Infringement notices are not intended as revenue raising, but to protect lives through safer driving behaviour. |
Few exceptions still exist
Although the rule is absolute, there are exceptions. Dividers may be crossed for the purpose of entering or leaving a property; for a U-turn where it is allowed, or to pass a stationary bicycle or other minor obstructions, so long as it does not obstruct or endanger other traffic. Such exceptions, authorities emphasize, are intended to help drivers avoid collisions and excessive penalties.
Consistency is needed
Road safety advocates have long been calling for more uniformity between states and territories so that drivers do not have to re-learn the laws from scratch when they operate in other parts of the country, be it Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or rural Australia. This update aims to bring the penalties more in line with other states and territories so that they do not conflict with each other, which should make enforcement easier.
Caution is advised
There are still reminders for drivers to enforce the rule which states that they should be most active concerning the changes of the line patterns on the road, as well as they should be familiar with the current edition of the Australian Road Rules in case they need more help.
The officials’ intention is to send a signal loud and clear about the potential safety ramifications that result from intersectional miscalculations about the dividing line on a road. As alreay pointed out, negative demerit points and a monetary penalty of $423 strongly suggests that does these act does not go with out consequences.