Fines and infringements — your rights and options

Every state allows you to pay fines by instalments. You can apply online, by phone, or in person. Payments can often be deducted from Centrelink payments via Centrepay.

In NSW, VIC, QLD, and WA you can clear fine debt through approved activities: unpaid work, courses, financial counselling, mentoring, or medical treatment. An approved sponsor applies on your behalf. While active, enforcement action is paused and suspended licences are reinstated.

In Victoria, fines can be revoked entirely if at the time of the offence you had a mental or intellectual disability, serious addiction, were homeless, or were a victim-survivor of family violence. Evidence from a treating professional is required.

You can request a review of any infringement notice if you believe it was issued in error, you were not the driver, or there are special circumstances. Time limits apply (typically 14–28 days).

For infringement notices (not court fines), you can elect to have the matter heard in court instead of paying the penalty. The court can consider your circumstances and may impose a lower penalty or no penalty.

Transurban's Linkt Assist offers payment plans, payment-free periods, partial or complete debt forgiveness, and infringement recall — asking enforcement agencies to return fines to Linkt for resolution. A financial counsellor can provide a professional assessment to support your application.

In NSW, Revenue NSW may postpone fines for 5 years during severe hardship. If circumstances have not improved, fines may be written off entirely. In SA, community service is available at 7.5 hours per $200 owed.