AI Road Camera Enforcement Begins in Australian State After 380,000 Offences Detected During Trial
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Details
- Date Published
- 20 Oct 2025
- Priority Score
- 2
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 22 Oct 2025, 11:36 am
Description
Western Australia begins issuing fines after AI cameras detect hundreds of thousands of offences, targeting mobile phone use, speeding and seatbelt non-compliance to curb rising road fatalities.
Summary
Western Australia has commenced full enforcement of AI road safety cameras after an eight-month trial revealed significant non-compliance with traffic laws. The AI-enabled cameras can detect multiple offences such as mobile phone usage, speeding, and incorrect seatbelt use. The initiative has been implemented in response to rising road fatalities and is expected to improve driver behavior by issuing fines for violations. This development signifies a noteworthy application of AI in enhancing road safety and reflects broader trends in using technology for public safety governance in Australia.
Body
21 Oct 2025 1:09 PMShareFacebookTwitterEmailCopy LinkWhichCar StaffGallery1Since October 8, Western Australia has activated full enforcement of its new artificial intelligence road safety camera program, issuing fines after an extensive eight-month warning period revealed widespread non-compliance on the state’s roads.During the trial phase, AI-enabled cameras monitoring key locations across Perth and regional areas detected more than 380,000 road safety breaches, with 65,000 warning notices issued to motorists for violations such as phone use, speeding and failing to wear a seatbelt correctly.Authorities say the warning period successfully prompted behavioural change, with a 40 per cent drop in offences recorded between February and September. However, drivers will now face penalties of up to $1000 and four demerit points for using a mobile phone illegally, speeding, or not complying with seatbelt laws.The system uses advanced AI cameras mounted on fixed and mobile trailers capable of detecting multiple offences simultaneously. These cameras can identify drivers using mobile phones, handling objects, failing to wear their seatbelt properly, or travelling at excessive speeds. They are also able to detect unregistered vehicles, monitor heavy vehicle speed limits and assess whether trailers or caravans are being towed legally.During the trial, 114,800 drivers were detected wearing a seatbelt incorrectly, 158,000 were caught using a mobile phone, and 100,000 were found speeding. Authorities also reported dangerous behaviour such as children travelling unrestrained in front seats and drivers seen using drugs or drinking behind the wheel.One motorist was reportedly captured committing more than 80 separate offences within just a few months.The rollout comes amid mounting concern over road safety in WA. The state has recorded its highest road fatality figures in nearly a decade, with 148 deaths so far this year, a 6 per cent increase on 2024.Police Commissioner Col Blanch said the new enforcement measures are intended to change habits, not just raise revenue.“If you’re caught in the first week, you really need to question your ability to drive safely,” he said. “Wearing a seatbelt or putting down your phone is a conscious decision.”Road Safety Minister Reece Whitby said penalties were now necessary to protect lives.“Every time you drive, you make choices that can end in tragedy. These cameras are about saving lives, not catching people out,” he said. “Slow down, buckle up and put the phone away.”AI-based road camera technology is already in use across several Australian states, generating substantial reductions in risky driving behaviours. WA authorities say they expect similar improvements as full enforcement is now underway.WhichCar StaffSUBSCRIBE TOWHEELSfrom only $59Buy a 6 month subscription for just $59.SubscribeWe recommendNewsAussie state's drivers face $1000 fines as new road safety cameras switch to enforcementMobile phone and seatbelt breaches to attract hefty penalties from October 8.September 4, 2025NewsAussie state's new AI cameras catch 130,000 people since January - 800 a day!Western Australia's new AI-powered cameras have uncovered some unbelievable driver deeds, with the police minister putting motorists on notice.July 2, 2025NEWSNewsChery debuts innovative 7-seat 'transformable SUV' with six layouts in one vehicleDebuting a revolutionary “6=1” reconfigurable design, Chery’s new multi-purpose SUV aims for unprecedented versatility – transforming from luxury people-mover to pickup or camper at the push of a button.October 21, 2025Maserati confirms Australian pricing and timeline for 2026 MCPura supercarOctober 21, 2025Ferrari unveils one-off SC40: A modern tribute to an iconOctober 20, 2025