What is the current law relating to drink driving?

December 10, 2010
Drinking Facts

By law, probationary drivers (P-platers) must maintain a zero BAC (“blood alcohol content” – their BAC must equal zero). Drivers of heavy trucks, buses, trains and trams must maintain a zero BAC level while on the road in most of Australia. Motorcyclists in their first year of riding also must maintain a zero BAC while on the road.

Penalties for drink-driving offences include disqualification from driving for a specified period, fines and imprisonment.

In Victoria, a BAC reading of 0.15 or higher results in suspension of the driver’s licence on the spot, until the case is heard in court.

Since 13 May 2002 , Victorian courts can order anyone committing a repeat drink driver offence or driving with a BAC reading of more than 0.15 to have an alcohol interlock device fitted to their car, motorbike or truck ignition.