A straightforward application at Beenleigh
In this Beenleigh work licence case study, Boorman Lawyers appeared at Beenleigh Magistrates Court on what the video describes as a pretty straightforward matter: a section 87 work licence application for a client charged with low range drink driving. The reading was 0.055.
A low level of seriousness
Because the reading was only just over the legal limit, the offence was at a low level of objective seriousness.
A concerning history
The client’s history was a little concerning. He had three earlier drink driving offences, but they were a long time ago, about 18 years before, when he was a much younger and more foolish man.
The submission to the court was that this fresh offence was not going to kick off a new pattern of reoffending.
Where the groundwork is done
The video explains that much of the groundwork in a work licence application is done in getting the affidavit material in place. In this case:
- the client’s boss provided an affidavit;
- the client provided his own affidavit; and
- the client completed the Traffic Offenders Program.
With that material ready, the hearing itself was straightforward.
The outcome
- a 2-month work licence; and
- a $200 fine.
The client was able to save his job and move forward without any hiccups. He was very remorseful, and the video suggests he is unlikely to be back before the court any time soon.
What this Beenleigh work licence case study shows
Work licence applications turn largely on preparation, and on eligibility under the section 87 rules. Old offences, well outside the 5-year window, did not stand in the way here. Every case is different, and eligibility depends on the person’s history and circumstances.
Key general information (QLD)
General information only, not legal advice, as at October 2026. Every case turns on its own facts.
- Drink driving offences: In Queensland, drink driving offences are set out in the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (Qld).
- The broad penalty picture: TMR describes a 24-hour suspension where the reading is under 0.10, and an immediate suspension, lasting until the charge is dealt with, for mid and high range charges and some other situations.
- Work licences: Queensland has a “restricted licence”, commonly called a work licence, under section 87 of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995.
- Sentencing and convictions: Alongside the disqualification set under the road transport laws, the general sentencing law in Queensland is the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld).
- The court process: Drink and drug driving charges in Queensland are dealt with in the Magistrates Court.
Further reading and related videos
Boorman Lawyers has more on appearing at Beenleigh, restricted work licences in Queensland and Queensland drink driving penalties. Its Queensland site covers drink driving matters across Queensland.
On this site, see a Cleveland work licence case and a Hervey Bay drug driving work licence, or browse all Queensland and drink driving videos.
For people who are preparing to plead guilty without a lawyer, DIY DUI’s guide to drink and drug driving charges at Beenleigh covers the local court and plea process. (DIY DUI is a self-help program for people preparing their own guilty plea. It is not legal representation and is not part of Boorman Lawyers.)
