Attention Australian drivers! From October 2025, new updates to the Australian Road Rules make it illegal to eat, drink, or smoke while driving. The nationwide crackdown targets distracted driving, aiming to improve road safety and reduce accident risks across all states — from Sydney and Melbourne to Brisbane and Perth.
What’s Changing Under the 2025 Road Rules Update
The Australian Road Rules 2025 introduce stricter penalties for distracted driving. Everyday habits once seen as harmless — like sipping coffee, eating fast food, or lighting a cigarette — can now lead to on-the-spot fines and demerit points.
| Offence | New Fine (Approx.) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Eating or drinking while driving | $220 | 2 points |
| Smoking while driving | $220 | 2 points |
| Using a handheld phone or earbuds | Higher penalties apply | Up to 5 points |
Authorities say these actions take a driver’s eyes off the road and hands off the wheel, greatly increasing accident risk.
Why Eating or Drinking While Driving Is Now a Violation
While many drivers think eating or drinking on the go saves time, studies show it’s a major distraction.
Experts explain that simple actions — like unwrapping food, handling a drink bottle, or cleaning a spill — can cause a split-second lapse in focus, often enough to trigger serious collisions.
Key risks include:
- Reduced vehicle control when one hand leaves the steering wheel.
- Slower reaction time to road hazards.
- Increased chances of lane drifting or tailgating.
Government data links food- and drink-related distractions to hundreds of road incidents yearly, prompting these new penalties under the 2025 traffic law reform.
Smoking While Driving: Now a Fineable Offence
Previously, smoking in cars was banned only when children were passengers in certain states. Now, smoking itself is officially recognized as a distraction under federal road safety standards.
Actions like:
- Lighting a cigarette,
- Handling falling ash, or
- Dropping a lit cigarette —
can cause panic or sudden swerves, endangering everyone on the road. Authorities argue that banning smoking while driving not only improves safety but also reduces public health risks.
Mixed Public Reactions
The rule change has split public opinion across Australia.
Supporters say it’s a smart move to prevent crashes and save lives.
Critics argue it’s government overreach — especially for truckers and long-distance drivers who rely on quick meals or caffeine on the go.
Despite backlash, authorities plan public awareness campaigns and consistent enforcement from October 2025 onward, emphasizing that road safety outweighs convenience.
How These New Rules Affect Everyday Drivers
From now on, drivers should:
Finish meals and drinks before starting the engine.
Take smoking breaks outside the vehicle.
Keep both hands on the wheel at all times.
Avoid distractions such as mobile phones or earbuds.
Repeated offences may lead to license suspension or higher fines, especially if combined with other violations.
Quick FAQs:
Q1. What’s the fine for eating, drinking, or smoking while driving in Australia?
A: The base fine is around $220 and 2 demerit points, depending on the state.
Q2. Are all states enforcing this rule?
A: Yes. The update applies nationwide under the Australian Road Rules 2025.
Q3. Can I drink water while driving?
A: Technically, yes — but if it’s deemed distracting or unsafe, police can still issue a fine.
Q4. Why were these rules introduced?
A: To cut down on distracted driving and reduce preventable road accidents.
Q5. What other actions are considered distractions?
A: Using mobile phones, adjusting GPS, or grooming while driving can also result in fines.
Final Thoughts
The October 2025 driving law update marks a new era for Australian road safety.
Eating, drinking, or smoking while driving may seem minor, but even a second’s distraction can cause tragedy.
Drivers are urged to focus fully on the road, plan breaks wisely, and avoid multitasking behind the wheel. Staying alert could save not only your license — but your life.