Social media has been buzzing with claims that Australia’s federal government is introducing new nationwide restrictions for P-plate drivers in 2025. Alleged rules include longer probation periods, stricter curfews, tighter passenger limits, and tougher fines. However, these claims are false. Driving and licensing laws in Australia are managed by individual states and territories, not by the federal government.
P-Plate Rules Are Set by States, Not the Commonwealth
Each Australian state and territory has its own probationary license conditions designed to improve road safety for novice drivers. These may include limits on passengers, phone use, and curfews, but they vary depending on where you live.
Key Variations in P-Plate Rules by State
| State/Territory | Passenger Restrictions | Curfew Hours | Mobile Phone Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | One passenger under 21 (P1 drivers under 25) | No full curfew | No phone use, including hands-free |
| WA | One passenger limit under Tom’s Law | Midnight – 5 am | No phone use for P1 |
| QLD | No statewide curfew | None | Hands-free allowed for P2 |
| VIC | Similar to NSW | Partial curfews | No phone use for P-platers |
The Social Media Misinformation
False claims circulating online suggest:
- A national rule extending the P1 period to 18 months
- A countrywide curfew from 11 pm to 5 am
- Only one non-family passenger allowed everywhere
- Tougher phone bans and penalties
- Learners needing 150 hours of supervised driving
These are not real changes. No official announcement has been made by the federal government or state transport departments.
Real Updates: Tom’s Law in Western Australia
The only confirmed change is Tom’s Law in WA, which:
- Restricts Red P-plate drivers to one passenger
- Introduces a midnight to 5 am curfew during the first six months
This law was designed to reduce crash risks among new drivers and aligns WA with stricter rules already in place in NSW and VIC.
Staying Informed and Safe
To avoid confusion:
- Always check your state’s transport department website for accurate rules
- Ignore unverified claims on TikTok, Facebook, or other platforms
- Seek guidance from licensed driving schools for up-to-date advice
FAQs
1. Is the federal government changing P-plate laws in 2025?
No. P-plate rules remain a state and territory responsibility.
2. What is Tom’s Law in WA?
Tom’s Law limits Red P-plate drivers to one passenger and imposes a midnight–5 am curfew for the first six months.
3. Can P-platers use mobile phones?
Most states ban all phone use (even hands-free) for P1 drivers. Restrictions vary for P2 drivers.
4. Do passenger limits apply nationwide?
No. Passenger limits differ by state. For example, NSW and WA have stricter rules, while QLD has none.
5. Where can I check the latest P-plate laws?
Visit your state or territory’s transport department website for accurate and current information.
Conclusion
The rumors about a federal overhaul of P-plate laws in 2025 are false. Licensing rules are controlled at the state level, and while some places like WA have introduced new restrictions such as Tom’s Law, there are no national changes. For young drivers and their families, the best way to stay informed is to rely on official state sources, not viral social media posts. Safe driving starts with knowing the real rules, not the fake ones.