Canberrans must slow down in school zones as children return to the classroom, ACT Policing states.

Since the school term started this week, 40km/h speed limits will be in effect across all ACT school zones. Drivers caught speeding in a school zone can face a fine, incur demerit points, and have their licence suspended.

In 2025, ACT Policing issued 264 fines and 47 cautions to drivers caught speeding in school zones, including one driver who was caught travelling at 89km/h.

The 44-year-old Kaleen woman was fined $2,136 and her licence was suspended for six months.

Detective Superintendent Alex Nicolson, in charge of Road and Proactive Policing, said the speed limit in school zones gave motorists extra time to stop in an unexpected situation.

“Children are some of our most vulnerable road users, and their size and unpredictability expose them to significant risk around roads,” Detective Superintendent Nicolson said.

“It is disappointing that drivers continue to gamble with children’s lives by speeding in school zones. Slow down, pay attention, and don’t take that risk.”