New "smart" AI-powered cameras are being introduced across Australia to detect mobile phone and seatbelt offences. This technology has already been implemented in New South Wales and Victoria, with Western Australia recently joining the rollout in January 2025.
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Early Results in Western Australia
During Western Australia’s trial period, the cameras identified approximately 130,000 offences. Nearly 50k caution letters were issued to drivers found breaching mobile phone and seatbelt laws. While fines have not yet started, authorities have indicated that penalties will follow if driver behaviour does not improve.
Focus and Limitations
The cameras are specifically designed to detect drivers using mobile phones or not wearing seatbelts. However, some road safety experts have pointed out that these systems do not directly improve safety for vulnerable groups such as pedestrians and cyclists, who remain heavily represented in fatality statistics.
Concerns About Privacy and Data Use
There have been cases where drivers questioned the accuracy of the camera detections. For example, in New South Wales, a driver successfully challenged a $410 fine and 10 demerit points after arguing that an item seen in his hand was not necessarily a phone. Another driver contested a seatbelt fine, claiming the provided images did not clearly show any offence.
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Experts have suggested that transport authorities should be transparent about how the technology is used to ensure public trust, and clearly communicate that personal data will not be misused.
Enforcement and Revenue
Officials in Western Australia have acknowledged that if driving habits do not change, significant revenue could be generated from fines. They have indicated that any collected funds would be directed towards additional road safety measures.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
