Seatbelt-detection cameras are designed to identify both unrestrained and incorrectly restrained occupants in a vehicle. In Australia, penalties are issued to the driver if a front passenger fails to comply with seatbelt regulations, regardless of whether the belt is buckled. This includes misuse, such as wearing the sash under the arm or behind the back.
Artificial intelligence (AI) processes captured images to identify violations. Images that suggest non-compliance are flagged for review. If confirmed, fines are issued. Images not showing a violation are deleted.
Legal Framework
Improper seatbelt usage breaches Road Rules 2014, Regulations 264 and 265. A compliant seatbelt must sit low and firm over the hips (lap portion) and across the shoulder (sash portion), without being tucked under the arm or placed behind the back. This regulation applies to both drivers and passengers. Passengers over 16 can be fined directly by police, but automated systems issue penalties to drivers only.
Camera Types
Australia operates two types of seatbelt detection cameras:
- Fixed cameras: Installed on permanent infrastructure such as speed camera poles or digital signage. Operate continuously.
- Mobile cameras: Mounted on portable trailers, often bright yellow, and repositioned regularly across regional and urban roads.
Mobile setups typically include solar panels, CCTV, and tracking technology to ensure uninterrupted operation and monitoring.
Accuracy and Appeals
Although AI is used to initially sort images, human oversight remains essential. Errors can occur, as seen in Queensland in 2023 when nearly 1850 incorrect fines were issued due to a software fault, leading to over 600 license suspensions. Fines can be appealed through official review channels or challenged in court. Offending images are accessible to the fined party.
Camera Locations by State
New South Wales
NSW has 47 fixed and mobile cameras. Locations are not published. Cameras are placed based on volume, risk, and areas where enforcement by police is challenging. Enforcement began 1 July 2024.
Penalty: $410 and 3 demerit points (6 during double-demerit periods)
Victoria
Victoria operates eight mobile cameras across 200+ locations. Locations are published monthly.
Penalty: $395 and 3 demerit points
Queensland
Fixed and mobile cameras are located based on historical crash data. Locations are not public.
Penalty: $1209 and 4 demerit points (8 during double-demerit periods)
Australian Capital Territory
Five camera setups (2 fixed, 3 mobile) operate from locations including Hindmarsh Drive and Gungahlin Drive.
Penalty: $353 and 3 demerit points (6 during double-demerit periods)
Western Australia
WA is deploying six new mobile camera trailers supplied by Acusensus. These detect speed, phone use, and seatbelt compliance.
Penalty: Starts at $550 and 4 demerit points, increasing with additional unrestrained passengers (up to $900 and 8 demerit points)
Tasmania
Four portable cameras detect seatbelt and mobile phone violations. Locations are not disclosed.
Penalty: $404 and 3 demerit points
South Australia
No cameras currently used.
Penalty: $381, $60 Victims of Crime fee, and 3 demerit points
Northern Territory
No cameras currently used.
Penalty: $500 and 3 demerit points
Seatbelt-detection cameras are an active road safety measure, and drivers are liable for ensuring all front passengers are correctly restrained. Misuse, even when buckled, can lead to significant fines and loss of licence points.
