Distracted Driving Laws in Australia and New Zealand

Drivers in Australia and New Zealand should be aware of distracted driving laws in these countries. Using a hand-held cell phone to make or receive calls while driving is illegal in both countries.

Australia

Drivers in Australia may not use a cell phone while driving unless it is mounted in a holder or bracket (not homemade) or is completely hands-free. This law applies whether the vehicle is moving or stationary.

Drivers may use a voice-activated cell phone as long as they do not touch the phone to use it. It is illegal to send or read text messages while driving in Australia.

New Zealand

In New Zealand, it is illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving. Drivers may use voice-activated cell phones, hands-free devices or mounting cradles to comply with the law. "Brief" and "infrequent" touching of the cell phone while driving is permitted, but drivers may not read or send text messages.

_{National Transport Commission. "(Model Amendments Regulations: Australian Road Rules – Package No. 8) Regulations 2009." Accessed: September 25, 2010. http://www.comlaw.gov.au/comlaw/Legislation/LegislativeInstrument1.nsf/0/9B948F87B6117BBCCA25767000142422/$file/0905955F090528Z.pdf}

_{New Zealand Transport Agency. "Land Transport Rules - Questions & Answers: Land Transport (Road User) Amendment Rule [2009]." Accessed: September 25, 2010. http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/rules/road-user-amendment-2009-qa.html}