Thousands of Western Australian drivers have been caught breaking the law by new multi-offence road safety cameras installed earlier this year. From the Australia Day long weekend to April 2025, more than 60,000 infringements have been recorded by the high-tech cameras, which detect seatbelt misuse, mobile phone use, and other unsafe behaviour behind the wheel.

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What the Cameras Detected

According to data released by the WA Road Safety Commission:

  • 20,000 drivers were detected wearing seatbelts incorrectly
  • 6,000 had no seatbelt on at all
  • 22,000 were caught holding mobile phones
  • 12,000 were found with phones resting on their body

More extreme behaviour was also observed, including the use of laptops while driving, unrestrained children in the front seat, and tampering with seatbelt alerts. The Commission says the footage demonstrates a widespread disregard for basic road safety laws.

Escalating Road Toll

The alarming camera data comes amid a rising road toll in WA. In 2024, five people died during the Easter long weekend. In the five years prior, 10 people lost their lives across the same period. As of May 2025, 59 people have already died on WA roads, putting the state on track for its worst annual road toll in a decade.

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Dangerous Driving Behaviours

Recent high-profile crashes in WA include:

  • A fatal collision on Leach Highway near Perth Airport in January
  • A crash in February allegedly caused by a drunk driver travelling at 130km/h in a 50km/h zone
  • Three friends killed in March east of Perth after hitting a tree
  • A double fatality in the Pilbara involving a motorcycle and a ute

The new cameras are part of a broader strategy to reduce road trauma across the state. They operate 24/7 and have been placed along high-risk corridors, including parts of the Mitchell and Kwinana freeways.

Enforcement Timeline

Drivers caught so far have been issued warnings as part of the initial rollout phase. However, authorities confirm that full enforcement will begin by the next summer holiday period. In cases involving extreme or dangerous behaviour, police are already launching formal investigations.

Road Safety Reminders

Authorities are urging motorists to follow road rules, especially as double demerit periods approach. The Road Safety Commission highlights that 60% of WA road deaths occur in regional areas, often on high-speed roads.

Motorists are advised to:

  • Always wear a seatbelt properly
  • Avoid any use of mobile devices while driving
  • Drive within speed limits, especially on regional roads
  • Prioritise safety over urgency

The WA Government and law enforcement agencies are continuing their push to improve road safety through technology and awareness, aiming to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on the state’s roads.

Disclaimer: This article is for public information purposes. For legal interpretations or updates, refer to official WA Government sources.

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