Home / Traffic Services / Special Hardship Licences Maroochydore

2,000+ successful applications · 98%+ success rate

Special hardship licence, Maroochydore — keep driving through a points or speeding suspension

If Queensland Transport is suspending your licence for demerit points on a good behaviour period, or for a 40km/h+ high speed offence, a special hardship licence (SHO) may let you keep driving. Sunshine Coast applications are heard at Maroochydore Magistrates Court — and it’s a one-shot application: get it right, or you’re off the road with nowhere to appeal.

Written and reviewed by Steven Brough, founder · practising in Queensland courts for 25+ years · Last updated 6 July 2026

fixed fee, quoted in writing

$ 0

success rate on SHO applications

0 %

successful applications since 2010

0 +

One shot

no appeal if it’s refused

About to lose your licence to points or speed? Talk to us today — free.

Leave your name, phone and email and we’ll call you back around 15 minutes during office hours — 7am–7pm, 7 days.

4.9 from reviews on Google

If you live in or around Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Buderim, Kawana, Coolum, Sippy Downs, Alexandra Headland or Cotton Tree, your special hardship licence application is generally filed at Maroochydore Magistrates Court, on Cornmeal Parade beside Sunshine Plaza. Your application must go to the Magistrates Court with jurisdiction over where you live — so it comes down to your address, not simply the nearest courthouse. Not sure it’s Maroochydore? Call us and we’ll confirm your court in a minute.

Your court

Maroochydore Magistrates Court

Cornmeal Parade, Maroochydore QLD 4558, beside Sunshine Plaza. Special hardship licence applications are heard in the Magistrates Court on level 1. Registry (07) 5376 5100, open 8:30am–4:30pm weekdays.

Our office

Suite 8, 84 Wises Road

Maroochydore QLD 4558 — five minutes from the courthouse. Meet us here, by phone, or at court on the morning. The Sunshine Coast is home ground: Steven founded the firm here in 2010.

Your lawyer

Steven, Jacob or Braden

Your special hardship licence application is drafted and argued by one of our Maroochydore regulars — including founder Steven Brough and Jacob Pruden. The lawyer who prepares your affidavit is the one who appears beside you at Maroochydore.

The honest picture

There are only two ways into a special hardship licence

A special hardship order (also called a hardship licence, SHO, demerit point licence or restricted licence) is a completely different application to a work licence — it has nothing to do with drink or drug driving. It exists for exactly two situations. Know which one is yours before you do anything else.

Path 1

Demerit points on a good behaviour period

You accumulated too many points, chose a 12-month good behaviour period (1 demerit point limit) instead of a suspension, then lost 2 or more points during it. Queensland Transport will suspend you — but a Magistrates Court can grant an SHO instead.

Path 2

A high speed offence — 40km/h or more over the limit

Once that ticket is finalised, Queensland Transport sends a letter with a date your licence will be suspended for 6 months. From that point, you can apply for an SHO to keep driving through it.

You can't get an SHO if…

A court has already disqualified you and you need to drive (that’s an appeal, not an SHO) · you’ve been convicted of drink or drug driving (that’s a work licence) · you’re on a learner licence · you don’t hold a licence at all.

The eligibility rules, either path

You must hold an open or provisional QLD licence · no court disqualification in the last 5 years · no Queensland Transport suspension in the last 5 years (unpaid SPER debts excepted) · and losing your licence must cause extreme hardship (your income) or severe, unusual hardship.

Check in 30 seconds

Can you get a special hardship licence?

Pick your situation, answer a few questions, and see roughly where you stand. This is general guidance, not a guarantee — the affidavit is what actually wins or loses your application.

You get one shot.

There’s generally no appeal if it’s refused. Fewer than half of unrepresented applicants succeed — almost always because the affidavit falls short.

General guidance only, not legal advice. Confirm your answer with a lawyer on 1300 952 255, free.

1. Why is your licence being suspended?

Fixed fee including affidavits and appearing with you in court: $2,990.

Diving deeper

Want the full picture on special hardship licences?

Steven has written a complete guide to special hardship orders in Queensland — who qualifies, what the affidavit must prove, and the mistakes that get applications refused. Here’s the short version.

The two suspensions it covers

Only two: demerit points during a good behaviour period, or a 40km/h+ high speed suspension. Anything drink or drug related is a work licence, not an SHO.

What the court must find

You’re a fit and proper person, and losing your licence causes extreme hardship (your income) or severe and unusual hardship. Mere inconvenience is never enough.

How to strengthen it

A properly drafted affidavit — yours and your employer’s — is the whole case. Completing a QTOP course before court helps too; we’re a proud sponsor.

Facts & myths

There’s generally no appeal if you’re refused. You can’t reapply. Under half of unrepresented applicants succeed. And driving outside your conditions adds a further 3-month disqualification.

When a special hardship order applies

A special hardship order (SHO) applies to only two suspensions: accumulating demerit points during a good behaviour period, or a high speed suspension for travelling 40km/h or more over the limit. If your suspension is drink or drug related, the right application is a work licence, not an SHO. You apply to the Magistrates Court in the district where you live or where the suspension was issued.

What the court must be satisfied of

Two things: that you are a fit and proper person to hold a special hardship licence, and that refusing it would cause extreme hardship by depriving you of your means of earning a living, or severe and unusual hardship to you or your family. Everyday inconvenience — or simply finding it hard to get around — is never enough on its own, which is why how the application is framed matters so much.

The affidavit is the whole case

The application is decided largely on affidavit material — yours, and usually your employer’s — so a properly drafted affidavit that sets out the hardship clearly and credibly is the whole case. We’ve run 2,000+ successful applications; completing a QTOP course before court (4 days, we’re a proud sponsor) and preparing genuine supporting material further strengthens it.

If it's refused, and the conditions

There is generally no appeal and you cannot simply reapply, so the application must be right the first time — under half of unrepresented applicants succeed. If granted, the licence comes with strict conditions on when and why you can drive; breaching them is an offence that adds a further 3-month disqualification, so understanding the conditions is as important as getting the order.

General information only, not legal advice. Every matter turns on its own facts — call 1300 952 255 for free, specific advice.

What we actually do

How we get your special hardship licence approved

The affidavit is the whole application — get it wrong and the court simply won’t grant it. This is what we do differently.

We draft every affidavit properly

Yours, and your employer’s if you’re employed. Not a letter, not a statutory declaration — a signed affidavit covering everything the legislation requires: your work, your hours, your finances, and why no other transport option works.

01 We recommend the things that sway a magistrate

A QTOP course often makes the difference in these applications — we’re a proud sponsor, and we’ll tell you if it will help yours.

02 We deal with Queensland Transport before court

Your material is filed and served on the Queensland Transport prosecutor in advance. We address any concerns they raise so there are no surprises on the day.

03 We file at the right court, first time

For the Bundaberg region, that’s Bundaberg Magistrates Court, 44 Quay Street. Your application must go to the court with jurisdiction over where you live, not just the closest one — we confirm it before filing. We confirm this before filing so there’s no wasted trip.

04 We argue for conditions you can actually live with

Every day and hour you work, every vehicle class you need, and any regular personal trips (medical appointments, school runs with no alternative) — argued for specifically, not left to chance.

05 We stand with you in court

Your lawyer appears beside you, speaks to the magistrate, and answers the prosecutor’s position — you don’t face it alone or unprepared.

06

All of it included in the $2,990 fixed fee — quoted in writing before you commit.

Steven Brough · Founder · Queensland Law Society member · 25+ years in Queensland courts

Meet the founder

Nobody in Queensland has done more of these

Steven founded the firm in 2010, and special hardship applications have been part of the practice from day one. We’ve now made over 2,000 successful applications across South East Queensland — more than any other Queensland firm we’re aware of.

He’s built the approach every lawyer here uses: know exactly what the legislation requires, draft the affidavit so nothing is left for the magistrate to question, and be in the room to answer whatever comes up. Because there’s no appeal if it goes wrong, that preparation is everything.

Firm founded 2010

98% success rate

2,000+ SHOs granted

QTOP sponsor

2 minutes — what the court actually needs to see, straight from Steven

When you ring 1300 952 255

A real person, who actually helps — not a call centre

Call us and you’ll speak with Belinda or her assistant Sara — no scripts, no queue, no being passed around. Belinda has 24 years in the legal industry and has taken thousands of these calls; the first thing she’ll do is put you at ease.

She listens first

Tell her whether it’s demerit points or a high speed suspension, and what you’re worried about losing.

Straight answers, free

Whether you’re likely to qualify, what the court will want to see, and what it would cost — at no charge, no obligation.

Straight to a lawyer

If you want us to act, your details go straight to the lawyer who’ll draft your affidavit and appear with you.

No pressure to sign

Just want information? That’s fine too — you won’t be hassled either way.

7am–7pm, 7 days · or request a phone conference

Belinda Smyth · Director & Client Services Manager · 24 years in the legal industry — she and Sara take your calls

Your local court

Maroochydore Magistrates Court — where your application is heard

Special hardship licence applications for the Maroochydore area are listed at the Magistrates Court on Cornmeal Parade, beside Sunshine Plaza on the Maroochy River. It’s the busiest court on the Sunshine Coast — and the bench our lawyers appear before every week, which is exactly why we know what a magistrate here wants to see in an affidavit.

Where it is

Cornmeal Parade, Maroochydore QLD 4558, beside Sunshine Plaza. The Magistrates Court sits on level 1, courtrooms 1 to 4; the District Court is on level 2. Registry (07) 5376 5100, open 8:30am–4:30pm weekdays.

Parking & getting there

The public carpark out front is small and fills early — use the paid Cornmeal Place carpark, get dropped off, or take the bus to the Sunshine Plaza interchange, a short walk away. Allow time to clear security screening at the entrance.

When it sits & what to expect

The court sits Monday to Friday. Special hardship applications are heard alongside other Queensland Transport matters — aim to arrive by 8:30am, find your courtroom on the daily law list, and your lawyer will meet you, speak to the Transport prosecutor, and appear beside you when your matter is called.

Maroochydore Magistrates Court, Cornmeal Parade — beside Sunshine Plaza on the Maroochy River.

So you know exactly what's coming

What happens in court on the day

01 Arrive 30 minutes early

At Maroochydore Magistrates Court, all your material should already be filed and served. Traffic and licence matters are heard on level 1 — find out which courtroom you’re in and wait outside it.

02 Speak to the Queensland Transport prosecutor

Confirm who you are and that you’re applying for a special hardship licence, and check they have all your affidavits. They’ll indicate whether they oppose the application, and why.

03 Your matter is called

Stand at the far left of the bar table. Tell the magistrate you’re applying for a special hardship licence, addressing them as “Your Honour” — then you’ll be asked to sit.

04 The prosecutor states their position, then you're heard

The magistrate reads your affidavits and asks questions, giving you the chance to explain why the application should be granted.

05 Conditions are set — or it's refused

If granted, expect conditions: set days and hours, passenger restrictions, a logbook, or wearing a work uniform while driving. You then re-register the licence with Queensland Transport before driving again.

our team

The lawyers who'll stand beside you

Every matter is run by a lawyer who appears in these courts constantly — the person you speak to is the person at the bar table.

Steven Brough

Founder & Principal

Russell

Senior lawyer

Jacob Pruden

Senior lawyer

Will

Lawyer

Sarah

Lawyer

Ryan

Lawyer

Braden

Lawyer

From our clients

Kept on the road, kept in work.

Every review here is a 100% authentic Google review.

4.9 on Google

“Jack Marshall was incredible, he helped me secure a special hardship license with no fuss, which will enable me to continue supporting my family. Very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommend. Couldn’t have done it without him”

Joely G — Google review

“Nothing short of perfect service and a fantastic outcome, Highly recommended and very stress free. Belinda and Russell know how to ensure the best possible outcome for the given situation.”

Andrew Gilbert — Google review

“Case – Special Hardship Order Lawyer – Jacob Pruden Firm – clarity laws Best lawyer , very professional , make you understand very thoroughly about the case what to do what not to.. , messages you with minute details about the case Highly recommended !!”

PRABKIRAT SIINGH — Google review

“I found myself wrongly charged so I needed the best professional, ethical and honest representation, so I engaged Clarity law and Jacob Pruden successfully had the charges dismissed .We couldn’t have asked for a better outcome! IF you want the best results, don’t hesitate to call Clarity law Maroochydore.”

Peter Kelly — Google review

“The team at Clarity Law is the best on the sunshine coast. A big thank you to Jacob. His calm and professionalism has made the case feel such a breeze.”

Christopher — Google review

“Found these guys through Google and so grateful! Assisted with my sons traffic incident so professionally but also so personally. The best and honest outcome for my son it always seemed was their goal and that’s what the outcome was. Jacob attended 3 different courts and was so supportive and assuring but also very clear to my son what the process was and what outcomes meant. Would Recommend Clarity Law 100% if you want a lawyer who works for you and is fair and just. Thankyou so much !”

Judy Zieth — Google review

First time dealing with this?

The terms you'll hear, in plain English

Special hardship order (SHO)

The court order that lets you keep driving through a points or high speed suspension, on set conditions.

Notice to choose

The letter Queensland Transport sends offering a suspension or a good behaviour period once you’ve accumulated too many demerit points.

Good behaviour period

A 12-month period with a 1 demerit point limit, chosen instead of a suspension — lose 2 or more points during it, and this whole process starts.

Affidavit

A sworn written statement — the core document the court decides your application on. A letter or statutory declaration isn’t good enough.

Extreme / severe hardship

The legal test the court applies — losing your licence must cost you your income, or cause severe, unusual hardship. Inconvenience alone isn’t enough.

Work licence

A different application entirely — for people convicted of drink or drug driving. Not the same as a special hardship order.

X3 condition code

The code on your reissued licence marking it as a special hardship licence with restricted conditions.

Bar table

The long table facing the magistrate where you stand to make your application, with the prosecutor on the other side.

Logbook condition

A common condition on an SHO requiring you to record every trip — check yours before you drive.

Frequently asked questions

What people ask us about special hardship licences

Anything else — the call is free: 1300 952 255 , 7am–7pm, 7 days.

How do I know which court to file the application in?

If you live in or around Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Buderim, Kawana, Coolum, Sippy Downs, Alexandra Headland or Cotton Tree, your special hardship licence application is generally filed at Maroochydore Magistrates Court, Cornmeal Parade. It must go to the Magistrates Court that has jurisdiction over where you live — which isn’t always the closest one. We confirm the correct court before filing, and you’ll soon be able to check it yourself with our Courts we attend page. In the meantime, call us and we’ll tell you in a minute.

What's the difference between an SHO, a work licence and a restricted licence?

“Restricted licence”, “demerit point licence” and “hardship licence” are all the same thing as a special hardship order. A work licence is different — it’s only for drink or drug driving convictions.

Do I really need a lawyer?

You’re free to represent yourself, but our experience is that under half of unrepresented applicants succeed — usually because the affidavit is missing something the legislation requires. You get one shot; there’s no reapplying if you’re refused.

Can I appeal if it's refused?

Generally no — the courts have held there’s no appeal against a refusal. That’s exactly why getting the affidavit right the first time matters so much.

Is there a time limit to apply?

No — but you can only drive as normal up until midnight before your court date, so there’s no benefit in waiting. Apply at the Magistrates Court that has jurisdiction near where you live; we’ll confirm it.

Does my employer have to know?

If you’re employed (not a contractor or business owner), yes — they need to sign an affidavit confirming you’d lose your income without the licence. Self-employed? You won’t need an employer’s affidavit, but your own must cover your business, income and expenses in just as much detail.

Will I be able to drive exactly as normal?

No — the court sets specific days, hours and purposes. Personal driving beyond work is hard to get approved unless there’s a strong, specific reason (e.g. essential medical appointments).

What if my circumstances change afterward?

You can apply to the court to vary your order — a new job, new hours or new address doesn’t mean starting again from scratch.

What if I drive outside the conditions?

You’ll lose the special hardship licence for whatever time was left, plus an extra 3-month disqualification — and you’ll likely be fined and back in court.

How much does it cost?

A fixed $2,990 — drafting your affidavit and your employer’s, advice on helpful courses, dealing with Queensland Transport, and appearing with you in court. Quoted in writing before you commit.

“Jacob and Belinda were very professional in they way they helped me with my Hardship Order made its stress free. Belinda was amazing with calming me down and attention to detail every step before court as I was mentally stressed and worried what the final outcome. I couldn’t complain about the outcome was far better than I thought as I was thinking the worst. Jacob caring and guidance before court and during court was very professional and calming. I would recommend anyone after a traffic Lawyer use Clarity Law! Thanks again Belinda for everything you did to accommodate our needs”

David Turnbull — Google review

Suspension letter in hand?

Call now — free advice on whether you qualify in the Bundaberg region, before you file anything.

4.9 on Google

Your questions answered

Ask our assistant about a special hardship licence at Maroochydore — any time.

Instant answers on eligibility, the affidavit, court process and conditions — trained on Steven’s guides. For advice on your situation, it hands you straight to a human.

Local knowledge

What's different about Maroochydore Magistrates Court

Sitting days & the list

The court sits Monday to Friday with three courtrooms usually running on level 1 (courtrooms 1 to 4). Traffic matters are typically listed in the 9am callover — represented matters are called early, which is why our lawyers file appearance notices before the day.

Getting there on the day

The small carpark in front of the court is 2-hour limited and patrolled — use the paid Cornmeal Place carpark or get dropped off beside Sunshine Plaza. The bus interchange at the Plaza is a five-minute walk across the river footbridge.

Who this court serves

This is the main court for the central Sunshine Coast — Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Buderim, Kawana, Coolum, Sippy Downs, Alexandra Headland and Cotton Tree — with Caloundra, Noosa and Nambour matters heard at their own courts.