New minimum penalties are sending a clear message to motorists that driving after drinking alcohol is not worth the risk, according to RACV head of policy James Williams.

Despite this, Mr Williams believes many Victorians remain unaware of the new penalties introduced in October last year.
And, Warragul police senior sergeant Peter Watson warned drivers - "we could be anywhere."
As well as paying a heavy fine, the changes see every drink driving offender lose their licence, need to complete a behaviour change program, get an alcohol interlock installed in their vehicle and drive with a BAC of zero for three years after completing their court-mandated interlock program.
Re-offenders may face heavier penalties than first-time offenders.
"Drink driving offences may also result in vehicle impoundment or, for serious cases, possible imprisonment," Mr Williams said. "The exact penalties will depend on a range of factors, including BAC level, age and licence type."
An example of such an incident occurred when a 31-year-old Warragul man had his vehicle impounded on Thursday, February 13.
Police allege the vehicle was being driven along Burke St at about 4.30pm and refused to stop. The vehicle was followed to a nearby address.
They said the man had multiple prior high-range drink driving offences including his licence being revoked for four years from January 29.
He will face Latrobe Valley Magistrates' Court at a later date.
Sen sgt Watson said the booze bus was recently in Drouin and would return at random times and dates, "plus every car is a booze bus."
"Unfortunately, we're getting a few higher (BAC) readings lately," he said.
From an operational point of view, sen sgt Watson said the new minimum penalties had streamlined police processes; keeping police officers out of court and able to spend more time in the community.
Mr Williams said most Victorians did the right thing but drink driving continued to be one of the "fatal five" risks and greatly increased chances of being involved in a crash.
"There are many factors that can impact BAC (blood alcohol content) readings, such as your age, sex, weight, fatigue levels and tolerance to alcohol," Mr Williams said.
"The safest way to know for sure that you are under the legal drinking limit is to not drive if you drink," he said. "Select a designated driver, look up public transport options, or book a taxi or Uber home."