The Allan Labor Government’s tough new penalties to crack down on drink drivers come into effect today – ensuring drivers think twice before getting behind the wheel while under the influence.
From today, every drink driving offender will face a mandatory three-year period where they must have a blood alcohol content of zero.
This mandatory three-year period applies to all drink driving offenders from the time they successfully complete their court-mandated Alcohol Interlock Program.
The Alcohol Interlock Program requires drink driving offenders to install a breath-testing device in their vehicle which records any alcohol detected – offenders must have an interlock device in their car for at least between six months or up to four years depending on the severity of their offence.
Victoria has some of the strongest penalties for drink driving in the country – first-time drink drivers who record a blood alcohol reading between .05 and .069 lose their licences for a minimum of three months and must have alcohol interlocks fitted to their vehicles for a minimum of six months.
Drink driving remains one of the most significant contributors to Victoria’s road toll – since 2023 around one in four drivers who have lost their lives on Victorian roads have had a blood alcohol concentration of .05 or above.
These new penalties send a clear message that the Government is serious about reducing these preventable injuries and fatalities on our roads.
Victorians are encouraged to plan a safe way home before heading out for a drink – whether that’s a designated driver, public transport or booking a taxi or ride-share.
As stated by Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne
“Too many families have suffered the heartbreak of losing a loved one to drink driving and these tough new penalties will make drink drivers think twice before getting behind wheel. This will save lives.”
“Every single one of us has a role to play to keep our roads safe. If you’re going out for a drink, the safest option is not to drive at all – it’s never worth the risk.”
As stated by Head of Road Safety Victoria Marcelo Vidales
“We know that drink driving is one of the leading causes of death and serious injury on our roads.”
“Drinking and driving don’t mix. Plan ahead and don’t put yourself and others at risk.”
