Driving While Licence Suspended in Canberra

Driving while your licence is suspended in Canberra is far more serious than many people realise. Even if you were genuinely unaware that your licence had been suspended, the offence is treated as strict liability under ACT law. This means that lack of intent or knowledge may not protect you from prosecution.

Many drivers assume that “as long as nothing goes wrong, it’s fine.” In reality, a single mistake, such as missing a notice from Access Canberra or forgetting to pay a fine, can result in heavy penalties, extended disqualification periods, or even imprisonment. The consequences can affect your work, study, insurance, and long-term opportunities.

ACT courts take these matters seriously. A conviction can automatically extend your disqualification period, and if you are already serving a suspension, any new disqualification may only begin after the current one ends, significantly increasing the total time you are unable to drive.

While there are limited legal defences available, they are difficult to establish in practice. However, even where a defence is not available, early legal advice can make a crucial difference. With the right strategy, it may still be possible to minimise penalties, avoid a recorded conviction, and protect your future.

Read the full article on Brightstone Defence to understand the penalties, available defences, and how experienced Canberra traffic lawyers can help protect your licence and your future:

Driving While Licence Suspended in Canberra: How One Mistake Can Affect Your Future.