Fines issued by mobile speed cameras in New South Wales have dropped significantly following the return of roadside warning signs in late April 2023. This change, part of the Minns Government’s effort to improve road safety through visibility and fairness, is showing immediate and measurable results.
Dylan Anderson
Fine Reduction Data
In May and June 2023, approximately 6,650 fines were issued across NSW from mobile speed cameras, a massive drop from the 55,387 fines issued in the same period in 2022. This represents an 88% annual reduction. In 2022, one in every 311 vehicles passing a roadside camera received a fine. By comparison, in the same months of 2023, that number dropped to just one in 1,663 vehicles.
Warning Sign Rollout
The reintroduction of portable warning signs was completed in April 2023. Each mobile speed camera vehicle now displays two signs before and one after the vehicle. This rollout reversed the previous Coalition government's 2020 decision to remove all signage. That decision led to a sharp rise in fines and public backlash.
The return of full signage followed several policy changes and logistical delays, including issues with fitting the large signs into the new speed camera vehicles. Vehicles have since been retrofitted to carry the signs safely.
Transparency and Road Safety
NSW’s mobile speed camera program is now one of the most transparent in the country. All camera vehicles display approach signs, an active rooftop sign during enforcement, and visible vehicle livery.
According to the state government, the new signage strategy has helped improve compliance without relying solely on enforcement. The goal is to encourage safe driving behaviour before offences occur.
Dylan Anderson
Speeding and Road Toll Context
Speeding remains the leading cause of road fatalities in NSW, contributing to around 41% of deaths in 2022. The government’s approach aims to reduce this toll by reminding drivers to slow down at key locations.
In addition to signage, the government has also introduced an incentive: drivers who maintain a clean record from January 17, 2023, to January 17, 2024, will be eligible to have a demerit point removed from their licence.
Program Background
In 2020, the previous government removed all mobile speed camera warning signs, prompting widespread criticism. A partial return of rooftop signs followed in 2021, along with the installation of 1,000 fixed warning signs across the state. In late 2022, full warning signs were announced but required modifications to the camera vehicle fleet.
The full return of warning signage has now been completed, closing the chapter on years of confusion and criticism over speed enforcement policy in NSW.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. For official updates or further information, please refer to the NSW Government or Transport for NSW websites.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
