Drivers across New South Wales are being warned: major speed enforcement changes are arriving in just weeks. From May 1, 2025, average speed cameras — previously used only for heavy vehicles — will begin tracking all vehicles.
Dylan Anderson
Transport for NSW confirmed that the changes will start along two key routes: a 15km stretch of the Pacific Highway (Kew to Lake Innes) and the Hume Highway (Coolac to Gundagai).
Previously, these cameras targeted only trucks and heavy vehicles. Now, every driver will be monitored for their average speed over distance, in a push to tackle rising road deaths.
How Average Speed Cameras Work
Average speed cameras don't just snap you at a single point. Instead, they:
- Record the time your vehicle passes two fixed points.
- Calculate your average speed between them.
- Issue a fine if your average speed is over the legal limit.
This system discourages drivers from briefly slowing down near cameras and then speeding again, aiming to improve compliance across longer distances.
Why the Change?
"Speed remains our biggest killer on the road, contributing to 41 per cent of all fatalities over the past decade," said NSW Minister for Roads John Graham.
Data from 2018 to 2022 shows nearly 80 per cent of deaths and serious injuries in average speed zones involved light vehicles, not heavy ones.
Dylan Anderson
Dr. Ingrid Johnston, CEO of the Australasian College of Road Safety, has urged governments to support initiatives like this, noting that enforcement over distance significantly reduces crashes and road trauma.
Trial Period Before Fines Begin
From May 1, drivers caught speeding by the new system will receive warning letters only. Full enforcement with fines and demerit points will begin on July 1, 2025.
All average speed camera zones are clearly signposted to give motorists notice.
Penalties for Speeding
Here’s what NSW drivers face if caught speeding:
| Offence | Fine | Licence Suspension |
|---|---|---|
| Over 45km/h limit (Light Vehicles) | Up to $3,300 | Minimum 6 months |
| Over 45km/h limit (Heavy Vehicles) | Up to $5,500 | Minimum 6 months |
Fines and demerit points vary based on how far over the speed limit a driver is travelling.
Australia's Rising Road Toll
Australia recorded 1,300 road deaths in 2024, the deadliest year since 2012.
Some argue that rising deaths are simply due to a growing population. However, experts like Dr. Johnston point out that the death rate per 100,000 people has also risen steadily:
- 2020: 4.3 deaths
- 2021: 4.4 deaths
- 2022: 4.5 deaths
- 2023: 4.7 deaths
- 2024: 4.8 deaths
- 2025 (so far): 4.9 deaths
The trend shows that something more than population growth is driving the increase.
Dylan Anderson
What This Means for NSW Drivers
This change is a clear signal from the NSW Government: speeding will not be tolerated.
Drivers across the state must now be conscious of their speed not just near traditional speed cameras, but across longer stretches of road. Authorities believe that this tougher enforcement approach will ultimately save lives and reduce serious injuries.
The message is simple: slow down and stay safe.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
