Home > Safety tips > Fines and the law

Fines and the law

Sometimes, things that don't seem to be a big deal can have serious consequences.

If you're arrested for an offence, you may be finger-printed and photographed.
If you're convicted of a criminal offence, you could have difficulty getting a job or even be prevented from obtaining a visa to travel overseas.

Alcohol

Police and Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation inspectors can issue on-the-spot fines for:

drinking in a public place (18 years and over): $100
underage drinking or possession of liquor in a public place, even if you're holding a drink for your friend who is over 18: $300*
being under 18 and found on licensed premises: $300*
being under 18 and found drinking or just holding a drink for a friend on licensed premises $300*

*or you could face a court-imposed fine of up to $2500 for each offence

Adults who provide alcohol to underage children where there is no responsible supervision face fines of up to $8000.

Don't fake it! It's illegal to use someone else's ID or make a fake ID.

If you use a friend's ID you may be fined $300 on the spot.
If you lend your ID to a friend you may be fined up to $500 and the ID may be confiscated on the spot.
If you deface an ID to use it, you may be fined $400 on the spot.
If you make and use a fake ID you may be fined $600 on the spot.
You could also be taken to court and fined up to $2500 for each offence you commit.

All fake IDs will be confiscated.

Last reviewed: 29 September 2009