NSW drivers are facing a significant change in road safety enforcement starting July 1, as average speed cameras go live at two major locations. Motorists caught speeding face hefty fines of up to $2,959 and the loss of up to six demerit points.
Dylan Anderson
Average Speed Cameras Activated
After months of silent monitoring, the average speed cameras on the Pacific Highway and Hume Highway will switch to full enforcement mode. These cameras do not capture a driver's speed at a single point but calculate average speed over a set distance. The system records when a vehicle enters and exits the monitored section, measuring whether its average speed exceeds the limit.
The two enforcement locations are:
- Pacific Highway: 15 km stretch between Kew and Lake Innes, Mid North Coast.
- Hume Highway: 16 km stretch between Coolac and Gundagai, southern NSW.
Until now, average speed cameras in NSW were only used to enforce speed limits for heavy vehicles. This marks the first time they will apply to light vehicles as well.
Fines and Penalties Breakdown
Drivers exceeding the speed limit will face escalating penalties depending on how far over the limit they are driving:
| Speed Over Limit | Fine (Unrestricted Licence) | Fine (Learner/P1/P2) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 km/h or less | $145 | $145 | 1 (Unrestricted), 4 (Learner/P1/P2) |
| 10-20 km/h | $334 | $334 | 3 (Unrestricted), 4 (Learner/P1/P2) |
| 20-30 km/h | $574 | $574 | 4 |
| 30-45 km/h | $1,097 | $1,097 | 5 |
| Over 45 km/h | $2,959 | $2,959 | 6 |
These penalties apply outside double demerit periods, with higher fines applying in school zones. Fine amounts may also increase from July 1, as adjustments are typically made annually in line with inflation.
Dylan Anderson
Why Average Speed Cameras?
Average speed cameras are widely regarded as highly effective in reducing speed-related crashes. Unlike traditional fixed cameras, they deter speeding over longer distances rather than just at one camera point. This encourages consistent compliance with speed limits throughout entire monitored sections.
The selected sites for this trial were chosen based on crash data, with six fatalities and 33 serious injuries recorded at these locations between 2018 and 2022. Authorities hope the new enforcement will help reduce such figures moving forward.
Public Notification and Start Date
While many local residents have already received warning letters, there is concern that some drivers may still be unaware of the looming changes. The NSW government has issued public notices online and across social media platforms, urging drivers to check their regular routes and comply with posted speed limits.
From July 1, enforcement begins. Drivers are advised to remain vigilant and maintain safe speeds across all road networks, particularly in these newly activated average speed camera zones.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
