From 1 March 2012 the penalty for all unaccompanied learner drivers and riders increased from one to four demerit points. The fine of A$160 and maximum court imposed penalty of A$2,000 has not changed.
This new penalty applies to anyone, of any age, learning to drive a motor vehicle on a road without an appropriate supervisor. This includes motorcycle, truck and car learners.
Between 1 November 2010 and 31 October 2011, a total of 13,300 infringements were issued to unaccompanied learner drivers and riders.
The new penalty means that if you drive a car unsupervised while on your learners, you will lose your licence for three months.
Car learner licence holders will also no longer have the option of a 12 month good driving behaviour period if they accrue four or more points in 12 months.
This means that if you rack up excessive points while on your car learners for any offences, your licence will be suspended for three months.
This will also delay how long you have to wait to apply for a provisional licence.
So don't risk your licence - always drive with an appropriate supervisor.