NSW Government introduces new roadworks speed limit law
New “out-of-hours” speed limits will soon apply to some road construction zones in New South Wales under changes proposed by the state government.
In a move hailed by the NSW Labor Government as a “common sense win”, the speed limits currently imposed around some construction sites will be lifted outside of construction hours – mirroring legislation already in place in Victoria and South Australia.
Currently in NSW, construction speed limits remain in effect outside of construction hours, forcing motorists to occasionally halve their speeds when there are no road obstructions or works taking place.
The Transport Legislation Bill 2025 presented to parliament this month will require “all road authorities including councils and their contractors undertaking road works to install, maintain and remove road work speed limit signs in compliance with a Standard to be published by Transport for NSW in the Gazette”.
Importantly, in certain cases, reduced speed limits will continue to apply to roadworks zones to ensure driver safety; for instance, if the road has been narrowed or has a mixed surface.
The amendment is expected to be finalised by the end of the year, with the new system to be implemented some time in 2026. The amendment was originally pledged by the current Minns Government as an election commitment.
“This is an important common sense reform to the way we manage our road worksites,” said NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison.
“Protecting workers and road users around worksites is critical and we will never weaken rules around safety.
“However, leaving speed restrictions in place outside construction hours often needlessly slows down traffic movement.
“This measure strikes the right balance in ensuring speed limits are appropriate and respected.”
RELATED: EVERY NEW AUSTRALIAN ROAD RULE AND FINE TAKING EFFECT IN 2025
