There are various levels to the illegality of using mobile and other devices while driving, depending on your licence. These devices include phones, DVD players, tablets and smartwatches.

     Learner, P1 and P2 drivers
No mobile device at all, including hands-free or handheld, while stopped at lights (when parked is permitted). Demerit points apply.

     Fully licensed car drivers
Fully licensed drivers are permitted to use make or receive a phone call, or use audio/music functions so long as the phone is in a secure purpose-built fixture attached to the car, and can be operated by the driver without touching any part of the device. The device must not be resting on any part of the driver’s body.

Using the GPS or navigation while driving is illegal, unless the phone is in the secure holder. Any functions of the phone outside of those stated are illegal – video calls, texting, browsing, using the camera, and emailing. This includes smartwatches, which are not to be worn if they are going to be used. Remember touching it to take it off constitutes using it, so take it off and mount it on your dash with a secure device before you get started.

     Motorcycle riders
Motorcycle riders who have held a motorcycle licence for less than three years and learners, P1 or P2 licence-holders, are not allowed to use a mobile phone for any function while riding, including when stopped at traffic lights. Using a mobile device while parked is permitted.

     People riding bikes, horses, cows, motorised eskies, go-karts, scooters or any other wheeled devices
Don’t use your phone unless it’s fixed to the bike or animal and you can use it hands-free without touching it.

     Penalties for using mobile devices while driving
Anyone caught using their device illegally will face four demerit points and a $476 fine. Demerit points do not apply to those on bikes, horses or other non-car non-motorcycle (i.e. unlicensed) vehicles, but the fine does.

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