The West Live: Michelle Roberts talks WA’s tough new mobile phone laws for drivers

New WA laws to increase fines for using mobile phones while driving to $1000 will be the harshest penalties in the country when introduced on September 1.

Initially announced in February to take effect from July 1, WA Police and Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts this week revealed enforcement of the penalties had been pushed back due to the pandemic.

Speaking to The West Live host Jenna Clarke from 8.45am, Ms Roberts will discuss why the fines have been hiked from the current $400 fee.

She'll also outline how taxis and rideshare drivers trying to accept, reject or end jobs or calls have been factored into the changes.

From texting, emailing, watching videos or even applying makeup, Ms Roberts will reveal some of the "incredibly dangerous" activities police have witnessed on WA roads.

Clarke is also expected to quiz Ms Roberts on how WA's drug trade has been hit amid COVID-19 restrictions.

Listen live from 8.45am here.