The state government revealed last week that mobile phone offences would be added to double demerit periods over the Christmas break this year. 

An additional demerit point will be also added to the existing standard penalty of three points from early next year.

The announcement came as police prepared for their annual blitz on the state’s roads over the holiday period.

Police Minister Troy Grant said the increased penalties were aimed at making the state’s roads safer.

“Holding your mobile phone to call or text while driving is extremely dangerous and just plain reckless for you, your passengers and everyone else on the road,” he said.

“The road toll is up on last year and every single motorist needs to get real and start thinking about their behaviour behind the wheel.

“We know double demerits are an effective road safety initiative, with deaths on our roads during holiday periods reducing by a third since they were introduced.

“By expanding them to mobile phone offences, we’re hoping motorists will heed the message, resulting in fewer deaths and injuries.”

Roads Minister Duncan Gay said the current $319 fine for using a mobile phone while driving would remain, for now, but the offence would carry a greater points penalty.

“I am not a fan of draconian fines but we need to see these stats go down, and if this doesn’t deter motorists, then I’ll hit them in the hip pocket,” he said.

“I’ll do whatever it takes to get the message out. Using your mobile phone while driving can kill.”