Motorists in New South Wales are being urged to stay alert as school zone speed limits come back into effect from January 31, despite students not returning to class until February 6. Authorities warn that these pupil-free days have become a well-documented “speed fine trap,” with drivers penalized at nearly double the usual rate.
Surge in Fines as School Zones Activate Early
The NRMA has highlighted that an overwhelming number of drivers are caught off guard each year by school zone speed limits on pupil-free days, when teachers prepare for the term ahead but students remain at home.
In 2024, 2,184 speeding fines were issued in school zones over just two days leading up to Term 1—almost double the daily average for February. Similarly, between January 30 and 31, fines surged to an average of 1,092 per day, compared to a usual February daily average of 598.
With 2025 marking an increase in pupil-free days from six to eight across the school year, authorities fear even more drivers could be caught out.
Why Drivers Keep Getting Caught
NRMA spokesperson Peter Khoury said many motorists are simply unaware that school zone speed limits still apply on pupil-free days, leading to frustration and confusion.
“It is extremely frustrating when drivers who normally abide by the 40 km/h speed limit in school zones are fined on pupil-free days because they were oblivious to the fact that the speed limits applied despite their children not being at school,” Khoury explained.
He emphasized that while school zone speed limits have broad public support, there is a clear need for better awareness campaigns to prevent unintentional speeding violations.
Authorities Urge Caution as School Zones Return
With speed cameras fully operational, Khoury is urging motorists to be extra vigilant from tomorrow. He warned that fines could spike again over the coming days if drivers fail to recognize the return of school zone restrictions.
“After almost two months of school holidays, the day to change driver behavior is tomorrow—when school zones are enforced—not next Thursday when students return,” Khoury said.
With thousands of fines issued each year in the lead-up to school reopening, authorities stress that the best way to avoid costly penalties is to slow down, check signage, and stay aware of school zone speed rules—even if no children appear to be present.