Aussies Duped by Fake ‘Nanny State’ Road Rules: The Shocking Truth Behind the Viral Rumours
- Furious drivers reacted to false claims of new road rules, including a $1,500 fine for eating or drinking while driving
- The alleged rules sparked outrage and confusion across social media, with many calling it a “nanny state” overreach
- Transport authorities have confirmed the claims are completely fabricated, with no changes to road rules in any Australian state or territory
In a stunning display of misinformation, fake news articles and social media posts have duped thousands of Aussies into believing a series of draconian new road rules were about to be introduced. The supposed rules, which claimed drivers would be fined up to $1,500 for eating or drinking while driving, sparked widespread outrage and disbelief.
But in a dramatic twist, transport authorities have stepped in to set the record straight, confirming that the claims are completely false and baseless. “There have been no changes to road rules,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said, while Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads labelled the reports as “fake”.
The false information had spread like wildfire across social media platforms, with many users taking to Instagram and X to vent their frustrations. “NANNY STATES: No more drinking your morning coffee on the way to work under Labor,” a furious poster wrote. “No, no, no. Heaven forbid you wanting to enjoy the hour-long commute, each way.”
But the truth is far more mundane. While there are no specific laws banning eating or drinking while driving in any Australian state or territory, motorists can still face penalties if their actions impact their ability to drive. In NSW, for example, a driver must not drive a vehicle unless they have proper control of the vehicle, with fines of up to $481 and three demerit points applicable if they fail to do so.
In more serious cases, if a crash occurs as a result of distracted driving, the matter can go to court where fines can reach up to $2,200. But the only specific fines for eating or drinking relate to public transport, with only 11 people fined for these reasons from 2019 to 2024, resulting in a total of $1,900 in fines.
The fake eating and drinking claim follows a wave of AI-generated misinformation earlier this year, which saw authorities debunk articles stating that drivers over the age of 60 would be placed under a strict night-time driving ban.
Transport Victoria responded online to clarify the rumour, saying “We’re aware of a myth that drivers over 60 face an overnight driving curfew – there is no such restriction.” Transport for NSW also confirmed there have been no changes to driving restrictions or requirements for older drivers.