A Sydney motorist is under fire after attempting to obstruct a mobile speed camera, sparking criticism and renewed warnings from road safety authorities.
Dylan Anderson
The Incident
The driver parked directly behind an unmarked vehicle used as a mobile speed camera and shared a photo on Facebook claiming he was “blocking” the camera. The post quickly drew backlash, with many pointing out the effort was ineffective and potentially counterproductive.
Despite the driver’s intent to prevent the camera from capturing speeding vehicles, experts and commenters noted that mobile speed camera systems are mounted at angles that can still monitor traffic even when a vehicle is parked behind them.
Public Reaction
Social media users were quick to criticise the action:
- Several comments highlighted that the vehicle placement could obstruct other drivers’ view of the camera, possibly increasing the chance of being fined.
- Others mocked the driver for a lack of understanding about how the camera systems work.
Previous Campaigns to Block Cameras
This is not the first time such actions have been attempted in NSW. A Facebook group known as ‘Block Their Shot’ previously promoted blocking speed camera views using cars, umbrellas, or trailers. The group was eventually taken down by the NSW government.
Attempts to obscure cameras have included drivers lifting their bonnets or parking large vehicles directly in front of cameras. These tactics have also been met with strong disapproval from authorities.
Dylan Anderson
Legal Implications
Blocking or interfering with the operation of a mobile speed camera is illegal. Under NSW law, it is an offence to obstruct, hinder, intimidate or abuse a person operating a road safety camera or device.
Such acts can lead to fines and other penalties. Officials continue to warn that interfering with enforcement tools puts road users at risk and undermines public safety.
A spokesperson from the Road Safety Centre stated previously that attempts to block or interfere with speed cameras are “dangerous” and endanger both operators and other road users.
Safety Comes First
Mobile speed cameras are installed to encourage drivers to obey speed limits and reduce road trauma. NSW data consistently shows that cameras are effective in lowering crash rates in high-risk areas.
Authorities urge drivers to focus on safe driving habits rather than attempting to interfere with enforcement. Blocking a camera does not stop its operation and may instead increase danger and legal exposure.
Disclaimer: This article is based on verified reports and statements from official road safety bodies. For more information on road rules in NSW, visit the Transport for NSW website.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
