Part 3 · Sub-section 8 of 8
Criminal & Traffic Offences
As an Australian citizen, you are responsible for knowing and following Australia's laws. The phrase "I didn't know" is not a legal excuse — if you break an Australian law you didn't know about, you can still be charged.
Criminal Offences
Some of the most serious crimes in Australia include:
Serious Criminal Offences in Australia
- Murder and assault
- Sexual assault
- Violence against people or property
- Armed robbery or theft
- Having sexual relations with children or young people below the legal age of consent
- Dangerous driving of a motor car
- Possession of illegal drugs
- Fraud
Domestic & Family Violence
Everyone has the right to experience positive and safe relationships. Violence towards another person is illegal in Australia and is a very serious crime — this includes violence within the home and within marriage.
Domestic and family violence includes behaviour or threats that aim to control a partner by causing fear or threatening their safety. This includes:
- →Hitting or physical violence
- →Isolating a family member from friends and family
- →Threatening children or pets
Domestic violence is against the law in Australia. A person who commits these crimes can go to jail — whether they are a man or a woman. No one should accept being treated badly or harmed. If you or someone you know is in danger, contact the police. Resources: www.respect.gov.au and www.1800respect.org.au
Traffic Offences
Road and traffic rules are controlled by state and territory governments. People can be fined or sent to prison for breaking traffic laws.
| Traffic Law | Rule |
|---|---|
| Driver's Licence | To drive a car in Australia, you must have a local driver's licence |
| Car Registration | Your car must be registered |
| Seatbelts | Everybody travelling in a car must wear a seatbelt. Babies and young children must be in an approved car seat. |
| Blood Alcohol | It is illegal to drive if you are above the blood alcohol limit |
| Drugs & Driving | It is illegal to drive after taking drugs |
| Mobile Phones | It is against the law to use a hand-held mobile device while driving |
Traffic laws are very strict. You can be fined or go to prison for breaking them. Not knowing the law is no excuse — every driver is responsible for knowing the rules.
Key Points to Remember
- "I didn't know the law" is not a legal excuse in Australia
- Serious crimes include murder, assault, sexual assault, armed robbery, drug possession, and fraud
- Domestic and family violence is illegal — even within marriage or the home
- DV includes hitting, isolating, and threatening family members — it is against the law for anyone, man or woman
- To drive legally you need a local driver's licence and a registered car
- All passengers must wear a seatbelt; babies must be in an approved car seat
- Illegal to drive above the blood alcohol limit, after taking drugs, or using a hand-held mobile device
- Traffic laws are set by state and territory governments
Quick Check
Score: 0/5 — You need 5/5 to complete Part 3
Question 1 of 5
If you break an Australian law you didn't know about, what happens?
Why it matters: In Australia, "I didn't know the law" is not a legal excuse. All people in Australia — citizens and visitors — are expected to know and follow Australian laws. If you break a law you didn't know about, you can still be charged with an offence.
Question 2 of 5
Is domestic and family violence illegal in Australia?
Why it matters: Domestic and family violence is illegal in Australia — it is a very serious crime. This applies equally to men and women. Violence within the home, within marriage, or threats to control a partner are all against the law. A person who commits these crimes can go to jail.
Question 3 of 5
What must every person travelling in a car do in Australia?
Why it matters: Every person in a car must wear a seatbelt — this applies to all passengers, not just the driver. Babies and young children must additionally be secured in an approved car seat. Failure to comply can result in fines.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following is a traffic offence in Australia?
Why it matters: Using a hand-held mobile device while driving is against the law in Australia. This includes talking on the phone, texting, or using apps. Traffic laws are very strict and people can be fined or imprisoned for breaking them.
Question 5 of 5
Who sets road and traffic rules in Australia?
Why it matters: Road and traffic rules are controlled by state and territory governments — not the federal government or local councils. This is why you need a state-issued driver's licence and registration. Rules can vary slightly between states and territories.