Vehicles

A motor vehicle is defined under the Road Traffic Act 1974 as a self-propelled vehicle that is not operated on rails. It includes a trailer, semi-trailer or caravan attached to a motor vehicle.

For information on drinking and driving offences, visit the Anti-social behaviour section of this website.

Traffic offences

Traffic offences include:

• Speeding
• Hit-and-run accidents
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (‘drink driving’ or ‘drug driving’)
• Hooning (organised street racing or reckless driving)
• Driving without a licence.

Stealing a motor vehicle

Unlawfully using a vehicle without the consent of the owner or the person in charge of that motor vehicle.

Penalties include imprisonment for up to 14 years.

Vehicle rebirthing

Vehicle rebirthing means transferring the identification parts from a damaged or wrecked car (e.g. registration plates or compliance plate) onto a stolen car of the same make and model. It enables the stolen car to be sold with the identity of the wreck.