Western Australia Rolls Out AI Cameras to Tackle Mobile Phone & Seatbelt Offenses
Image Credit: Alexandre Boucher | Splash
Western Australia is set to enhance road safety with the deployment of advanced AI-powered traffic cameras capable of detecting a range of high-risk driving behaviours. These state-of-the-art systems are scheduled to be operational from January 26, 2025.
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Deployment and Capabilities
According to Road Safety Minister David Michael, these cutting-edge cameras represent the most advanced technology in the country. They are designed to identify offenses such as illegal mobile phone use, seatbelt violations, spot speed, and point-to-point (average) speed monitoring. Initially, motorists captured committing these offenses will receive caution notices during the introductory period, with full enforcement and fines commencing in May 2025.
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Political Reactions and Concerns
The initiative has garnered mixed reactions. Liberal leader Libby Mettam acknowledged the trial's findings from 2022, which recorded 66,000 offenses over six months, highlighting significant issues with driver behaviour in the state. She criticized the delayed implementation, suggesting that the rollout should have occurred two years earlier following the trial's completion. Mettam also emphasized the importance of increasing police presence, proposing the addition of 300 extra officers, including a full-strength highway patrol unit, to enhance road safety.
Integration and Funding
These new AI-equipped cameras will complement the existing fleet of automated speed cameras utilized by the Western Australia Police Force. Assembled locally, the camera trailers are funded by the Road Trauma Trust Account, which allocates all safety camera infringement revenue to projects aimed at reducing road injuries and fatalities. Additionally, two existing camera sets on the Kwinana Freeway will be upgraded using funds from this account.
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Penalties for Offenses
Currently, in Western Australia, drivers caught using mobile phones illegally face fines of up to AU$1,000 and four demerit points, while seatbelt offenses can attract fines of up to AU$900 and four demerit points. In comparison, Queensland imposes even stricter penalties, with fines reaching AU$1,209 for mobile phone use and AU$1,161 for seatbelt violations, making it the most stringent state.
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Source: News.com.au, Queensland Government
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