When and where do Easter double demerits apply?

The Easter long weekend is almost here again, and for the first time in a couple years, travel between the states and territories is relatively unimpeded.

But as friends, families and loved ones seek out some long-awaited cross-border reunions, it's important to remember that while the Easter weekend is one of the busiest times on Australia's roads, it can also be one of the most dangerous.

Police will be out in force to keep an eye on drivers and to make sure the roads stay safe.

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And in some parts of Australia, getting busted for a driving offence is going to hurt a whole lot more than usual this long weekend.

Here's what you need to know.

Double demerits in NSW, Western Australia, and the ACT

New South Wales, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory will have double demerits in place from April 14 to April 18.

Drivers busted doing the wrong thing will face extra demerit points being docked from their licence, although most fines will remain the same.

The harsher penalties will apply to speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and helmet offences.

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In Western Australia, the list of eligible offences also includes trying to avoid a speed camera - whether by device or driving - drink or drug driving, and running a red light.

But helmet offences don't make the list west of the border.

And depending on how long your trip is, it's worth keeping in mind that the following Anzac Day long weekend, from April 22 to April 25, will also be a double demerit period in both jurisdictions.

Queensland

Queensland has a permanent double demerits system which differs slightly from its holiday-based cousin.

In Queensland, drivers who commit repeat offences are hit with the heavier penalties.

Specifically, if a driver commits the same offence two or more times in a 12 month period, double demerit points will apply to the second and any subsequent offences.

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Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory and Tasmania

Victoria, South Australia the Northern Territory and Tasmania do not have a double demerits scheme.

However, this should not equal a lack of precaution.

Usual penalties and fines apply to offences committed over the Easter long weekend, and no doubt there will be plenty of police watching the roads.

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