A re-elected Liberal and Nationals Government will waive the fines on a range of minor driving offences for motorists who have a three year clean driving record.
From 3 April, eligible motorists will be able to apply to have the fine waived for low level offences including speeding offences under 10km/hr or driving in a bus or transit lane.
School zone, heavy vehicle, red light, mobile phone and speeding offences above 10km per hour will not be eligible under the scheme given the serious safety risks involved.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the initiative struck the right balance, recognising safe driving by providing the one-off waiver for the lowest range road offences.
“For those motorists who have a history of safe driving, this initiative will save them potentially hundreds of dollars if they commit a minor road offence,” Mr Perrottet said.
Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said enhancing road safety was at the core of the policy.
“To be eligible, motorists have to have a clean driving record for three years. This Liberal and Nationals policy rewards good drivers and provides a real incentive to put safety first, unlike Labor’s policy which focuses on helping serial offenders at risk of losing their licence,” Mrs Ward said.
Minister for Finance Damien Tudehope said greater awareness of the scheme will encourage positive behaviour change.
“Receiving a fine can come as an unwelcome shock but under this policy, motorists will have cause to reflect on how an extended clean driving record can bring relief,” Mr Tudehope said.
“The average NSW licence holder drives 12,000 km per annum and maintaining a clean driving record over three years should be recognised and rewarded.”
In 2021, there were 227,500 fines issued for low level offences to motorists with a three year clean driving record, totalling $39.2 million in fines.