Canberra drivers and riders can use their phone’s GPS capability (if the device is safely secured) while on the road following an amendment to ACT legislation.
It had previously been illegal to use the GPS function of mobile phones while driving and riding in the ACT.
ACT Minister for Justice Shane Rattenbury said it would also now be possible to make or receive a call on a mobile phone while driving provided the phone was not being touched or held by the driver.
“The legislation previously allowed a driver to use a standalone GPS device, but not a mobile phone, for navigation purposes,” he said.
The new legislation will align the ACT’s road rules with other Australian jurisdictions, including NSW.
“Drivers and riders need to be aware that it remains illegal to hold a mobile phone while driving, or to use a mobile phone to text, receive or watch a video message, email or to use any other functions of the phone.
“This is dangerous behaviour that compromises your personal safety and the safety of other road users,” Mr Rattenbury said.
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