If you drink and drive in Victoria, it’s not a matter of if you’ll be caught—it’s when. With Victoria Police carrying out roadside alcohol testing every day across the state, chances are, if you’re over the limit, you’ll be caught eventually.
And the consequences can be severe. One of those consequences could be having to install an alcohol interlock device in your vehicle—a penalty that can follow you long after your initial offence.
What is the alcohol interlock program in Victoria?
The alcohol interlock program in Victoria is designed to prevent drink driving reoffending. It requires drivers who have committed a drink driving offence to install an alcohol interlock in their vehicle.
The interlock is a breath-testing device connected to the ignition and the vehicle will only start if a zero-alcohol reading is recorded. Interlock devices even have cameras to ensure the correct person is providing the breath sample.
The program in Victoria was expanded in 2021 to apply to all drink drivers—regardless of how much they were over the limit or whether it was a first offence. That means even a low-range reading can lead to mandatory installation of an interlock device.
Participation in the alcohol interlock program isn’t just about plugging in a device and waiting out a suspension. Offenders are required to maintain a zero blood alcohol concentration every time they drive, have the device regularly serviced and remain in the program for a minimum period set by the courts or VicRoads. For many, it becomes a costly, inconvenient and constant reminder of a single poor decision.
Once the minimum time has passed, drivers must apply to have the interlock removed and they may need to demonstrate a consistent record of zero-alcohol readings to be approved. It’s a rigorous process designed to encourage long-term behavioural change and protect all road users.
What does this mean for Victorian workplaces?
While roadside alcohol testing in Victoria and the alcohol interlock program is aimed at private vehicles on public roads, there is a clear takeaway for workplaces. If people are willing to take risks on roads, they’ll take risks in workplaces as well. And if you operate in a safety-focused environment, the impact can be severe.
Whether your workers are operating trucks, forklifts or company vehicles, work around machinery, fly a plane, work on a boat or do any other safety-focused role, you need your people to come to work alcohol-free.
This is where workplace alcohol testing in Victoria plays a vital role. Integrity Sampling supports businesses right across the state in maintaining safe and compliant work environments. Our professional alcohol testing services can help identify risks early, support rehabilitation efforts and send a strong message that safety is the top priority.
Why partner with Integrity Sampling for alcohol testing in Victoria?
Integrity Sampling has over two decades of experience helping businesses implement effective drug and alcohol testing programs. In Victoria, we operate from 10 locations, including:
- Melbourne
- Geelong
- Ballarat
- Bendigo
- Mildura
- Horsham
- Traralgon
- Shepparton
- Warrnambool
- Wodonga
This extensive coverage means no matter where your business is located—from major cities to regional towns—we’ve got you covered. Our technicians are trained, accredited and understand the unique needs of different industries, from construction and transport to manufacturing and warehousing.
Don’t leave your workplace safety to chance. Contact Integrity Sampling today to learn more about workplace alcohol testing.
Note: Alcohol interlock devices can be fitted to business vehicles and machinery and it’s a safety strategy that many workplaces employ. Integrity Sampling can help, with Drager’s latest available technology, the Interlock 7500.
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Fail roadside alcohol testing in Victoria and you’ll likely join an exclusive – but far from desirable – program, called the Victorian Alcohol Interlock Program.
