New drink driving penalties now in effect

By Shepparton News

Oct 21, 2024

New drink driving penalties are now in place. Photo by Rodney Braithwaite

The Allan Labor Government has introduced stricter drink driving penalties, enforcing a three-year zero blood alcohol requirement for offenders following their court-mandated Alcohol Interlock Program, enhancing road safety for all Victorians.

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The Alcohol Interlock Program requires offenders to install a breath-testing device in their vehicle for a minimum of six months to a maximum of four years, depending on the severity of the offence.

Victoria's penalties for drink driving are among the strongest in Australia. First-time offenders with a blood alcohol reading between .05 and .069 lose their licences for at least three months and must have alcohol interlocks fitted to their vehicles for a minimum of six months.

Drink driving remains a significant contributor to Victoria's road toll, with about one in four drivers who lost their lives on Victorian roads since 2023 having a blood alcohol concentration of .05 or above.

“Too many families have suffered the heartbreak of losing a loved one to drink driving and these tough new penalties will make drink drivers think twice before getting behind wheel. This will save lives,” Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said.

Victorians are encouraged to plan safe alternatives when drinking, such as using a designated driver, public transport, or booking a taxi or ride-share.