October is Motorcycle Awareness Month

It’s Motorcycle Awareness Month, and we’re reminding drivers of the importance of looking out for motorcyclists on our roads. Sadly, motorcycle riders make up about 18% of all road deaths and 22% of serious injuries on NSW roads, despite motorcycles representing just 3.9% of all registered vehicles in NSW. With motorcycles being harder to see…

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Seatbelt detection cameras are in operation on the Mid North Coasts roads

Seatbelt detection cameras have officially been operating on the Mid North Coasts roads since July 2024. Phone and seatbelt detection cameras detect drivers and passengers who are not properly wearing a seatbelt. Penalties apply for drivers detected not wearing a seatbelt properly or with a passenger not wearing a seatbelt properly. It’s been a requirement…

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New Driver Knowledge Test online launched for learner drivers

People wanting to get their learner license will now have the option to take their Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) in the comfort of their home or anywhere with internet access with the launch of Transport for NSW’s Driver Knowledge Test online. A commitment in the 2026 Road Safety Action Plan, the Driver Knowledge Test online has…

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Can P-platers use Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay is a great addition to modern cars, making life easier without touching your phone while driving. However, it is against the law for some novice drivers. In New South Wales, it is illegal for a P-plater to have their phone connected to their head unit via Apple CarPlay. According to the Service NSW…

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Can I drive an electric car on my P-plates?

Can I drive an electric car on my P-plates? The simple answer is yes, but it depends on where you live and the model in question. In New South Wales there are restrictions regarding power-to-weight ratios and the definition of a performance vehicle. As a guide a P-plater in NSW is prohibited from driving a…

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Buying a used car? Do a free registration check

Buying a used car? Check a vehicle’s previous odometer readings to make sure it hasn’t been tampered with. Use the new odometer reading feature during a FREE registration check here: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/check-a-vehicle-registration You can check a vehicle’s registration details online. A free registration check includes: the registration expiry date whether the registration is suspended or cancelled…

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Be careful of wildlife and livestock on the Port Macquarie – Hastings roads

Wildlife and livestock on the roads pose an added risk to motorists. Driving around Port Macquarie we often see wildlife on the road including koalas, kangaroos and deer. Wildlife, especially kangaroos, wallabies and deer are often drawn to the roadside. In rural areas such as around Wauchope, Thrumster and Sancroix you also need to be…

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The danger of distraction – Mobile Phone Usage Rules for P Plate Drivers

Driving is an exciting experience. It’s also a privilege that comes with a lot of responsibility. “Mobile phones are one of the biggest distractions for young drivers. In fact, 14% of drivers involved in vehicular accidents are all young drivers with increased fatalities over the past two years,” says motoring expert Burke Wilson from Great…

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Our top tips to staying safe if your car breaks down

Top tips Always activate your hazard lights (and parking lights in poor visibility) Find a safe spot to pull over, such as a hard shoulder or breakdown lane Position your vehicle as far away from other traffic as possible Stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt on and call roadside assistance If you have to…

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