Australian state proposes to stiffen drunk-driving penalties

Under strict new laws proposed yesterday by the Australian state of Victoria, first-time and low-level drunk-driving offenders could have their driving licences cancelled immediately and be mandated to install an interlock device on their vehicle.

The provisions of the new law would require the immediate cancellation of driving licenses for three months for people with a blood-alcohol level between 0.05 and 0.07, and banning them from driving for three months. The same penalties would apply to drivers caught for their first drunk-driving offence.

Also, every drunk driver would have an interlock device installed in their vehicle for six months and be required to take a behaviour change program before they could regain their driving license.

Speeders also receive sterner reprimands in the proposed legislation. Drivers who exceed the speed limit by 25km or more would also incur an immediate three-month suspension of their driving license.

Luke Donnellan, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, said, “Drivers over 0.05 are putting themselves and the community at risk. We make no apologies for bringing in tougher penalties – because we know that tougher penalties means fewer deaths on our roads.”

Donnellan said that about 3,000 people with full driving privileges are caught driving drunk in Victoria each year, with blood alcohol levels in the 0.05 to 0.07 range and that drunk driving was responsible for 23% of all traffic fatalities.

Low-level and first-time offenders currently receive demerit points and fines. If passed by the state legislature, the law would become effective early next year.