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Anyone caught drink-driving in NSW can now lose their licence immediately under a tough new penalty regime that will also see offenders fined almost $600. First time, low-range drink-drivers from May 20 can be slapped with an on-the-spot suspension of their licence for three months and a fine of $561. Roads Minister Andrew Constance says NSW is taking a "zero-tolerance" approach to drink and drug-driving. "This means anyone caught drink-driving in NSW, at any level, including low-range, can now lose their licence immediately," the minister said in a statement on Monday. "This reform makes it clear if you break the law, you will pay the price. We are taking a zero-tolerance approach to drink and drug driving." Drivers found with drugs in their system will face the same penalties if the offence is confirmed by laboratory analysis. Some 68 people died in alcohol-related crashes on NSW roads last year. Drug-driving resulted in a similar number of deaths. Assistant Police Commissioner Michael Corboy said the reform would protect road users by ensuring swift and certain penalties. "Alcohol is one of the major factors in crashes that kill or injure people on NSW roads. The 0.05 blood alcohol limit has been in place for almost 38 years. There are no more excuses," Assistant Commissioner Corboy said. AAP

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