Aussie Drivers Warned: Roadside Cameras Set to Detect Another Offence (Mobile Device Use)

Introduction

Australia is stepping up road safety enforcement with the introduction of highly advanced AI-powered detection cameras. These systems can now pinpoint when drivers are using or holding mobile devices—even when stationary. From surveillance to enforcement, this technology marks a new era. Let’s explore the rollout, implications, and what every motorist needs to know.

1. What’s Changing? The New Offence Detection Capability

1.1 National Rollout of AI-Enabled Detection Cameras

As of July 1, 2025, Australian states began deploying AI-powered roadside cameras capable of recognising drivers using, holding, or touching mobile phones—even at traffic lights. Offenders face fines up to $1,209 and up to five demerit points .

1.2 Technical Capabilities

These cameras employ AI algorithms to detect mobile device interaction in real time, regardless of whether the vehicle is in motion or stopped. The enhanced tech significantly broadens enforcement beyond traditional speeding and seatbelt violations .

2. The Map of Enforcement: By State

2.1 Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Timeline:
- Feb 2023: Early introduction of transportable and fixed mobile detection cameras.
- Nov 3, 2023: A three-month warning period began—drivers only received written warnings during this phase (Chief Minister’s Office, ACT Government).
- Feb 20, 2024: Full enforcement started. Fines became active:
  - $514 + 3 demerit points for handheld device use.
  - Up to $632 + 4 demerit points for tasks like texting or social media use (Chief Minister’s Office, ABC).
Scale of Detection:
- Over 63,000 drivers detected since 2023—averaging around 180 daily—with 18,000 instances during warning period alone (Chief Minister’s Office, ABC).

2.2 South Australia (SA)

Rollout & Grace Period:
- Cameras went live on June 19, 2024, in five high-risk locations with a three-month grace period until September 18, 2024, when warnings were issued (National Tribune, Reddit).
Post-Grace Enforcement:
- From September 19, 2024, fines commenced:
  - $556 + $102 victims levy + 3 demerit points (ABC, National Tribune, Reddit).
- In the first week alone, approximately 2,500 fines were issued, with some drivers flagged multiple times and facing potential license loss (ABC, Reddit).
- One driver accumulated 41 fines (~$27,000) in a three-month span (ABC).
Volume and Controversy:
- During the education phase, 68,000+ warnings were sent (ABC).
- The first week saw 8,603 potential offences, translating into significant projected fine revenue—estimated up to $185 million annually (The Advertiser).
- Legal concerns rose as some drivers challenged fines, arguing that their photos didn’t show a phone; law firms reported multiple such cases (The Advertiser).

2.3 Western Australia (WA)

Upcoming Rollout:
- On Australia Day 2025, new cameras (six portable + two fixed) capable of detecting phone and even cigarette usage began operation. A three-month grace period runs until April (ABC).
- Violations may result in fines up to $1,000 and four demerit points (ABC).

2.4 Tasmania

Ongoing Enforcement:
- Since September 2022, mobile speed cameras have been detecting a range of offences, including mobile usage and seatbelt absence.
- Over 81,000 fines issued, totaling around $12 million in revenue .

3. Why It Matters: Safety, Behavior, and Legal Challenges

3.1 Safety Impacts

Research highlights that even 2-second distractions at 60 km/h cover 33 meters without driver attention. At 100 km/h, it extends to 55 meters—a serious safety risk (Chief Minister’s Office, National Tribune).
The campaign aims to support the Vision Zero goal of eliminating road fatalities and serious injuries (Chief Minister’s Office).

3.2 Behavior Change Through Deterrence

Warning periods gradually shift to enforceable penalties; this method has shown to reduce repeat infringement rates and encourage safer driving (ABC, National Tribune).
In SA, behavior improved after enforcement began, though some drivers still tested limits.

3.3 Legal Transparency and Pushback

In South Australia, some drivers claim wrongful fines—like being snapped without visible phones—and are seeking scrutiny (The Advertiser).
Human review of AI-detected images is standard, but concerns remain about false positives (The Advertiser).

3.4 Cultural Issues in WA

WA officials warn of a broader “culture problem” with phone use behind the wheel, and the cameras are part of a shift to enforce better habits (ABC).

4. What Drivers Should Know

4.1 Know Your Local Rules

ACT: Enforcement began February 20, 2024. Fines range from $514 to $632, depending on the offense (Chief Minister’s Office, ABC).
SA: Enforcement began September 19, 2024—Fines at $556 + levy + 3 points (National Tribune, ABC).
WA: Cameras active from January 2025, fines up to $1,000 post-grace period (ABC).
Tasmania: Cameras have been active since 2022, with large numbers of fines issued (Herald Sun).

4.2 Distraction Risks and Safe Alternatives

Avoid holding mobile devices while driving. Use Bluetooth, hands-free mounts, or voice controls if necessary—preferably when stationary and safe.

4.3 What to Do If You Get a Fine

Review images in your notice. If you believe there’s an error—like no phone was visible—legal challenges may be possible, but these are rare to succeed (The Advertiser, Daily Telegraph).

4.4 The Bigger Picture: Save Lives

Beyond fines, reducing driver distractions is vital for collective road safety. Staying focused behind the wheel saves lives.

Conclusion

Aussie drivers are now facing a powerful new form of enforcement. AI-enhanced detection cameras can catch mobile phone usage—even when idle. The rollout—with warning periods followed by strict penalties—is designed not just to penalize but to reshape behavior toward safer roads. Whether in the ACT, SA, WA, or Tasmania, the message is clear: keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road—before the cameras catch you.