Australian Police Are Now Paying Sober Drivers (2 Photos)

Police in the town of Manjimup, Western Australia, have launched a unique campaign to combat drunk driving ahead of the Australian rules football finals and the upcoming school holidays. Throughout September, officers are handing out $20 AUD gift vouchers to sober drivers, according to local news outlet ABC. To qualify, motorists must obey traffic laws and pass a breathalyzer test with a zero reading.





In total, 100 vouchers worth $2,000 will be distributed. The idea was pitched by the local road safety committee and funded by Holyoake, an organization providing alcohol and drug support services. Organizers hope this positive reinforcement will raise road safety awareness during a busy September marked by heavy traffic and high crash risks.

However, criminologists are divided on the experiment. While experts note that such initiatives effectively boost the police force's public image and foster trust within the community, whether they actually reduce drunk driving over time requires further study.



At the same time, research shows that immediate positive feedback can favorably influence driver behavior. A Western Australia Police spokesperson clarified that while this campaign is not a statewide policy, similar initiatives have previously been trialed in other districts.