Bega MP and minister for transport and roads Andrew Constance has hit the ground running in his new role by enforcing an on-the-spot loss of license and a large fine for drink driving offences.
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Described by his department as a "streamlined" and "tough", the changes, which take effect on May 20, will apply to first-time low, special and novice range drink-driving offences.
Offenders will receive an immediate three month licence suspension and a $561 fine.
"There will be no court appearance," Mr Constance said on social media this week.
"In the past, when low-range offenders have appeared before court, around 56 per cent have recorded a non-conviction. This reform changes that - sending a very clear message that if you break the law, you will pay the price."
Low-range in NSW is a blood alcohol concentration between 0.05 and 0.08, the maximum fine for a first offence is $1,100 and minimum disqualification period is three months.
"Alcohol is one of the major factors in crashes that kill or injure people on NSW roads. The 0.05 blood alcohol limit has been in place for almost 38 years. There are no more excuses," assistant police commissioner Michael Corboy said
Mr Constance appeared on social media on Monday alongside regional transport and roads minister Paul O'Toole, and Daniella Dare, whose relatives Lars, Vivian, Annabelle and Jessica Falkholt were killed by a driver returning home from a Nowra methadone clinic.
"This reform makes it clear if you break the law, you will pay the price. We are taking a zero-tolerance approach to drink and drug driving," Mr Constance said.
"Drivers who have an illegal level of alcohol in their blood or have used illegal drugs have no place on the road."
Offenders who drive with the presence of illicit drugs will also for the first time receive a $561 fine and a three month licence suspension if the offence is confirmed by laboratory analysis, which can take months.
Mr Constance was sworn is as Bega MP at Parliament House in Sydney on Tuesday.
"Rest assured Bega, I won't let you down," he posted on social media.
"I feel very honoured and privileged to have been chosen to represent the people of Far South Coast for another four years," he said.
"I'm looking forward to getting on with delivering my election commitments and continuing to serve our community."