What does ‘special circumstances’ mean?
Special circumstances means that you could not avoid getting the fine because of your circumstances at the time.
Special circumstances apply if, when you got the fine, you:
- had an intellectual disability, cognitive impairment or mental illness
- had a drug or alcohol addiction
- were homeless or living in unstable housing
- were experiencing family violence
and as a result:
- you could not control the behaviour you were fined for
- or you didn’t understand that you what you did was against the law
You can get your fines cautioned
If you have special circumstances, you can have your fines reviewed by Revenue NSW who may issue a caution. The review will be completed with reference to the internal review guidelines.
Get advice
If you think you have special circumstances, get free legal help.
If you think that you have special circumstances, contact your local Community Legal Centre or Legal Aid NSW for help.
You can also use the letter template below to request a report from your doctor or psychiatrist to help you.
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If you do not take action by the due date you may pay more and be stopped from driving or using your car.