Vic: Bracks flags tougher penalties for P-platers

AAP General News (Australia)
12-11-2001
Vic: Bracks flags tougher penalties for P-platers

By Ben Packham, State Political Correspondent

MELBOURNE, Dec 11 AAP - P-plate licence holders could be hit with tougher penalties
for speeding and drink driving offences under measures being considered by the Victorian
government.

A tougher demerit point system and higher fines for probationary drivers were two of
the options being examined, Premier Steve Bracks said today.

Mr Bracks said he backed more severe penalties for P-platers than for fully licensed
drivers found guilty of the same offence.

"Probationary licences are just that," Mr Bracks told reporters.

"You do already have a greater responsibility as a probationary licence holder, for
example you have to have zero blood alcohol ... there's already differentials.

"What we'll be examining is other differentials as a disincentive for speeding and
drinking on the road."

Mr Bracks said the government could change the demerit point system for P-platers under
present arrangements, but legislation would be needed to increase fines.

"I've asked the transport minister to draw up those arrangements, to examine demerit
points, and to examine potential legislation next year," Mr Bracks said.

Road Trauma Support Team secretary Michael Lombard backed the proposals.

"A licence to drive must be regarded as a privilege and the young must earn the right
to remain on our roads," Mr Lombard said.

"The premier is on the right track; the changes can only lead to safer roads for us all."

RACV manager of public policy Ken Ogden said the RACV would support a lower demerit
point threshold for P-platers to lose their licences.

But it would not support higher fines, saying there was no evidence they acted as a deterrent.

"Recognising that these are an at-risk group, we would support a lower demerit point
threshold for P-platers," Dr Ogden told AAP.

He said 19 to 24 year-olds made up 15 per cent of drivers but they accounted for 33
per cent of fatalities.

Liberty Victoria president Chris Maxwell said he supported the proposals as long as
magistrates retained sentencing discretion.

AAP bp/clr/jnb/sb

KEYWORD: PROBATIONARY NIGHTLEAD

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