The New South Wales (NSW) government is rolling out a game-changing speed enforcement trial that will expand average speed camera monitoring to all vehicles, not just heavy trucks. This marks a significant shift in road policing and could mean big fines for unsuspecting drivers.
Dylan Anderson
Speed Camera Crackdown Begins – What You Need to Know
From May 1, 2025, two key regional highway sections will begin testing the new enforcement method. These locations were selected due to high accident rates, with six fatalities and 33 serious injuries recorded between 2018 and 2022.
Where Are the New Speed Cameras Located?
The trial will take place on:
- Pacific Highway: 15km stretch between Kew and Lake Innes (Port Macquarie)
- Hume Highway: 16km stretch between Coolac and Gundagai
These highways have been identified as dangerous zones where excessive speeding contributes to a significant portion of road accidents.
Dylan Anderson
How Do Average Speed Cameras Work?
Unlike regular speed cameras that only capture speed at a single moment, average speed cameras calculate the time it takes for a vehicle to travel between two fixed points. If your calculated speed exceeds the limit, you’ll receive a fine and demerit points.
Here’s how they operate:
- A camera records your entry time at the start of the monitored stretch.
- A second camera captures your exit time.
- The system calculates your average speed over that distance.
- If your speed exceeds the limit, you’ll be fined automatically.
When Do Fines Start?
The enforcement rollout will occur in two phases:
- May 1 – June 30, 2025: Drivers caught speeding will receive warning letters.
- July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026: Full enforcement begins, and drivers will face fines and demerits.
Dylan Anderson
How Much Could You Be Fined?
Speeding fines in NSW are among the highest in Australia. If you exceed the speed limit, you could face penalties such as:
| Offence | Fine | Demerit Points | License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exceed by 10km/h or less | $137 | 1 | No |
| Exceed by 10-20km/h | $316 | 3 | No |
| Exceed by 20-30km/h | $542 | 4 | No |
| Exceed by 30-45km/h | $1,036 | 5 | 3-month minimum |
| Exceed by 45km/h+ | $2,794 | 6 | 6-month minimum |
Why Is NSW Expanding Speed Cameras?
For years, NSW has been the only Australian state that restricted average speed cameras to heavy vehicles only. However, studies show that light vehicles are responsible for 80% of fatalities in areas where these cameras operate.
International research also supports the effectiveness of average speed enforcement:
- Norway (2015): Reduced fatal crashes by 49%
- UK (2016): Reduced fatal and serious injury crashes by 36%
- NSW (Heavy Vehicles): Reduced fatalities by 50% where average speed cameras were installed
With speeding responsible for 41% of all road deaths in NSW over the past decade, the government is taking stronger measures to improve road safety.
Dylan Anderson
What Should NSW Drivers Do Now?
As NSW joins other Australian states in enforcing speed limits through average speed cameras, drivers should:
- Stay within the speed limit in monitored zones.
- Avoid the risky habit of slowing down only near traditional speed cameras.
- Watch for road signs indicating average speed camera zones.
The NSW government will review the effectiveness of the trial in 2026, and if successful, expect more camera locations to be added across the state.
CarExplore's Thoughts
This speed enforcement trial marks a new era for road safety in NSW. Whether you’re a frequent highway traveler or an occasional road-tripper, understanding and adapting to these changes is crucial. Stay alert, drive responsibly, and avoid unnecessary fines!
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
