What does the term "indictable offences" refer to?

The term "indictable offences" refers to serious crimes that require a jury trial. These offences are more grave in nature compared to minor offences and carry heavier penalties, often including significant prison time. Indictable offences are usually prosecuted on indictment, meaning they are formally charged and tried in higher courts, where a jury is present to determine the defendant's guilt or innocence.

In contrast, the other options focus on different categories of crimes or legal violations. Minor offences do not require a jury and are handled in lower courts. Regulatory violations typically relate to breaches of specific regulations, such as those governing businesses and industries, and are not classified as indictable. Traffic offences, while they can sometimes involve serious matters, are generally considered summary offences or regulatory in nature, depending on the severity, and are not categorized as indictable offences. Therefore, "serious crimes that require a jury" accurately describes the nature and legal proceedings associated with indictable offences.