New South Wales is set to trial a major speed camera shake-up, turning on average speed cameras for all vehicles for the first time.

For years, NSW drivers have assumed point to point speed cameras only applied to heavy vehicles, but that is about to change. Under a six month trial, average speed cameras will monitor all cars on two major highways:

  • Pacific Highway – 15km stretch between Kew and Lake Innes (Port Macquarie)
  • Hume Highway – 16km stretch between Coolac and Gundagai (near Canberra)

The NSW Government says the move aims to curb the rising road toll, with speeding contributing to 44 percent of road fatalities in 2023, three quarters of which occurred in regional NSW.

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What Makes Average Speed Cameras Different

Unlike traditional speed cameras which snap a single moment in time, average speed cameras measure a driver’s speed over an extended distance. This means motorists cannot just slow down when they see a camera and avoid fines.

NSW Roads Minister John Graham explained that the new system offers a truer reflection of a driver’s speed, making it harder for repeat offenders to game the system.

“NSW is the only place in the world that restricts average speed cameras to heavy vehicles. In the context of a rising road toll, now is the time to trial them for all vehicles,” Mr Graham said.
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Why These Locations

The trial is focused on regional NSW, which sees a disproportionate number of road deaths. Between 2018 and 2022, there were six fatalities and 33 serious injuries on these trial routes.

“Although only a third of people live in regional NSW, that is where two thirds of road crash deaths happen,” Mr Graham said.

Will You Be Fined Immediately

The six month trial will begin with a 60 day grace period, during which drivers will receive warning letters instead of fines. After that, full penalties including fines and demerit points will be enforced.

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More States Already Use This System

NSW is the last mainland Australian state to implement average speed cameras for cars. Similar systems in Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia have already been credited with reducing road fatalities.

The NSW Government has promised a public awareness campaign before the trial begins to ensure all drivers are informed.

Would you support average speed cameras across all NSW roads? Let us know in the comments.

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