The Western Australian government has proposed stricter rules for learner and provisional drivers, including increasing supervised driving hours from 50 to 75, extending the learner period from six to 12 months, and lengthening the red P-plate period from six months to one year. Green P-plates would also increase from 18 months to two years.
Under the proposal, P-platers would be restricted from using phones for calls unless using a hands-free in-car system. Map apps and music would still be allowed if the device is secured in a mount and not touched while driving. Supervising drivers would need a zero blood alcohol concentration.
The announcement follows a weekend that saw two deaths and two serious injuries on WA roads, bringing the year's road toll to 140. The government also plans to issue fines of up to $1,000 from October 8 for drivers caught by new smart cameras that can see inside vehicles. Over 300,000 drivers received warnings during an eight-month grace period, including 191,000 for seatbelt offenses and 135,000 for mobile phone use.
A six-week public consultation period will gather feedback on the proposed changes. Minister Jessica Stojkovski emphasized urgency, saying the goal is to make young drivers safer. The government is also launching a campaign focused on the death of 15-year-old Tom Saffioti, who died in a 2021 crash. His family hopes sharing his story will encourage safer driving.
