It has been said that the decision to implement double demerit points on select Australian highways ahead of the country’s day of mourning for the Queen was “heavy-handed.”
From 12 a.m. on September 21 to 11:59 p.m. on September 25, double demerits will be in effect for five days on NSW and ACT highways.
According to NSW legislation, the rise was automatically triggered by the Commonwealth’s announcement of the public holiday on Thursday, according to NSW Minister of Roads Natalie Ward.
For public holidays that fall so close to the weekend, Ms Ward told 2GB, “that’s the usual course of events.”
However, broadcaster Ben Fordham questioned if Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had in mind for Australians to be hit with harsher driving fines when he announced the day.
Why would they put double demerits on someone on a day meant to honour Queen Elizabeth II? said, Ben.
I’m unsure whether the Prime Minister meant that when he announced we will commemorate a national day of sorrow.
“To me, it feels heavy-handed.”
Similar outrage was expressed by drivers on social media: “Why should one day of sorrow result in double demerits? One wag said, “This is a money maker.”
NSWGovt is opportunity seekers with the “double demerits,” another person commented.
However, Ms Ward maintained that everyone’s safety and having a relaxing holiday weekend should come first.
She noted that since individuals would be taking extra-long vacations beginning on Thursday, there would be more automobiles on the road once school vacations began on Monday.
I understand it’s a sombre event, but it’s a holiday just like any other, she remarked.