Motorists in New South Wales are being urged to pay close attention to their speed as significant changes to road enforcement take effect from July 1, 2025.
Dylan Anderson
Average Speed Cameras Move to Full Enforcement
Two key average speed camera locations, which have been operating in trial mode, will begin issuing fines to light vehicle drivers. This marks a notable shift in NSW's road safety strategy.
The affected sites are located on:
- Pacific Highway between Kew and Lake Innes (15 km stretch)
- Hume Highway between Coolac and Gundagai (16 km stretch)
Until now, average speed detection systems in NSW were used exclusively to monitor heavy vehicles. From July 1, these cameras will begin enforcing speed compliance for all light vehicles as well.
How the Average Speed System Works
Unlike fixed speed cameras that record a vehicle's speed at a single point, average speed cameras calculate a vehicle’s speed over a distance. They record the time a vehicle passes two checkpoints, then calculate its average speed across that distance. If the result exceeds the legal limit, fines and demerit points are issued accordingly.
Penalties for Speeding
The penalties for light vehicle drivers under this system are substantial:
| Speed Over Limit | Fine | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 10 km/h | $145 | 1 |
| 10-20 km/h | $334 | 3 |
| 20-30 km/h | $574 | 4 |
| 30-45 km/h | $1,097 | 5 |
| Over 45 km/h | $2,959 | 6 |
Learner and provisional drivers face stricter penalties at lower thresholds. All fines are subject to increase from July 1 in accordance with Consumer Price Index adjustments.
Dylan Anderson
Rationale Behind the Change
Transport for NSW states that average speed cameras are intended to reduce speeding-related crashes by ensuring consistent compliance over long distances, rather than at isolated camera locations. The goal is to prevent drivers from slowing only near cameras and speeding up again afterward.
Concerns Raised Over Driver Impact
Some legal experts have expressed concerns that the system may unfairly penalise regular drivers who briefly exceed speed limits without deliberate intent. They argue that drivers may become overly focused on maintaining exact speeds over long distances, potentially compromising their broader road awareness.
Public Notification Underway
Authorities have sent notices to local residents and issued public advisories online, warning all motorists to be aware of the rule change before enforcement commences on July 1. Drivers are urged to closely monitor their speed to avoid incurring significant penalties under the new average speed camera regime.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
