How QLD's Trials Bold New Speed Cameras

Queensland has officially launched a bold new road safety initiative, with real-time behavioural warning signs now active at selected trial locations across the state. Known as Behavioural Awareness Monitors (BAM cameras), these cutting-edge systems are targeting two of the most frustrating driver behaviours: tailgating and mobile phone use.

How the New BAM Cameras Work

The BAM cameras have been installed over single-lane, straight roads with speed limits between 60 and 80kph. They monitor traffic in real-time, flashing a warning message to any drivers caught either tailgating or using a mobile phone while driving. Importantly, these cameras are about changing behaviour — no fines are issued from these warnings.

The four initial trial sites include two in Townsville and two in South East Queensland, selected based on high traffic volumes and safety concerns.

Encouraging Safer Driving

A spokesperson from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) said the initiative aims to influence driver behaviour positively through instant feedback. "When drivers are detected engaging in unsafe behaviour, the monitors flash a reminder to drive safely. When they are doing the right thing, they receive positive reinforcement," the spokesperson said.

This real-time approach mirrors the success of speed awareness monitors used elsewhere in Queensland and hopes to reduce risky driving behaviours before they lead to fines, crashes, or fatalities.

Tailgating and Phone Use: Major Road Safety Issues

According to RACQ's annual surveys, tailgating consistently ranks as one of Queensland motorists' biggest frustrations. Joel Tucker, RACQ’s road safety and technical manager, reiterated the importance of the trial: "Tailgating remains a major safety concern. Real-time feedback may be the breakthrough we need to help drivers recognise and correct this risky behaviour."

Tucker also noted the difficulty in enforcing tailgating under normal conditions. "This technology shows drivers immediately when they’re too close, making them think twice," he said.

Meanwhile, distracted driving — especially mobile phone use — continues to be a significant factor in road crashes. By combining these two major issues under one technology trial, Queensland is taking an ambitious step to target everyday risks that endanger lives.

No Fines — For Now

Unlike traditional speed or mobile phone detection cameras, these BAM systems do not issue fines. Instead, they rely solely on alerting drivers with warnings. However, authorities have hinted that if the trial proves successful in improving behaviour, similar systems could be expanded statewide, and enforcement measures could eventually be considered.

The off-road testing of the BAM cameras earlier this year proved successful, paving the way for the on-road trials now underway.

What's Next?

The trial will run for several months, with TMR and RACQ closely monitoring the results. If significant reductions in tailgating and mobile phone use are observed, Queensland could lead the nation in adopting this new form of proactive road safety technology.

For now, motorists are encouraged to stay alert, put their phones away, maintain safe following distances — and pay attention to the new roadside warnings.