Artificial intelligence (AI) road safety cameras have been rolling out across Australia, resulting in a large number of fines.

For example, roughly 184,000 infringements have been issued in Western Australia since the cameras were launched in October last year. In New South Wales, more than 130,000 fines were issued in 2024-2025, the first year the technology was used. In Queensland, about 114,000 fines based on AI image recognition technology were issued in 2024.

But it is the size of the penalties that has drawn much attention and criticism. In WA, penalties start at A$550 and four demerit points for seatbelt infringements. These can add up quickly in cases where people get repeated fines.

For example, one WA driver with a seatbelt exemption was issued almost A$20,000 in fines after multiple seatbelt infringements.

Although fines can be challenged, there are growing concerns about the accessibility and fairness of the appeal process, especially at scale. The technology also raises the question of whether AI camera systems are the best way to promote safe driving.

How do AI road safety cameras work?

AI road safety cameras use computer vision systems to identify patterns in still images captured by roadside cameras.

AI software initially reviews all images. Where no infringement is detected, the image is automatically deleted. Where potential infringements are detected, the........

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