Australian Driver Fined Nearly $1,300 for Phone on Lanyard
A Queensland woman argues the penalty is excessive and questions the effectiveness of high fines in deterring dangerous driving.
An Australian driver has been fined $1,295 and received four demerit points for wearing her mobile phone on a lanyard while driving in Queensland. The driver, who was caught by one of the state's AI-powered road monitoring cameras, stated she was unaware it was illegal to have the phone resting on her body, even if not actively using it.
The fine, which includes an additional 3.5 percent increase from July 1 due to the state's annual indexation policy, is the same penalty issued for using a phone or improperly wearing a seatbelt. Repeat offenders within a year can face double demerit points. The driver expressed concern that contesting the fine in court could lead to even higher expenses.
Dr. Michael Kane, Head of Public Policy at RACQ, questioned the efficacy of substantial fines as a deterrent, pointing to the ongoing increase in road fatalities despite stricter penalties. He advocated for a comprehensive review of traffic fines and penalties in Queensland, suggesting a focus on improving road safety culture and considering incentives for safe driving practices.
Between January and August 2026, Queensland recorded 214 road deaths.