Yahoo Lifestyle Dodgy driver's licence tactic with demerit system used by millions growing ‘out of control’
Drivers face hefty fines and even imprisonment if the illegal transactions are caught.
There has been an increase in the number of drivers offloading their demerit points to willing strangers in exchange for cash as Aussies desperately try to keep their licences, with one lawyer saying the illegal tactic is "out of control".
Social media appears to be the go-to place for drivers in search of someone they can falsely nominate to palm off their demerit points to and there are seemingly plenty of people happy to oblige. Some selling the illegal service even create advertisements of their own online to attract those in need.
Over the past year, the tactic has gained popularity, with the price of one demerit point going for between $30-$150. However, on Tuesday a lawyer explained he is seeing more and more people seeking legal advice after getting involved with the trend.
"This used to be a very tiny part of my practice, I do about eight to nine consultations a week on this," criminal lawyer Jahan Kalantar told 7News Sunrise. "This is becoming really out of control."
Hefty fines for those involved in demerit point black market
Yahoo first reported on the dodgy practice in February 2023, with interest in the practice growing over the past 12 months. But there are tough penalties for those who choose to falsely nominate another driver and for those who agree to take demerit points in exchange for cash. Not only do all involved face hefty fines, imprisonment is also at risk if a false declaration is caught.
One high profile incident in 2006 ended with former federal court judge Marcus Einfeld being sentenced to imprisonment after he was caught falsely declaring another driver responsible of his speeding fine.
Can you spot the demerit offence in this NRMA road rules photo?
How man could have been hit with $10,000 in fines in 11 minutes
In Victoria, offenders face fines of $9,000 for perverting the course of justice, while those in NSW and Queensland copping a maximum penalty of $11,000.
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