Nearly two years after New South Wales reintroduced warning signs for mobile speed cameras, the long-term impact is becoming clear: fines have significantly dropped, while driver compliance has improved.
Dylan Anderson
In a move aimed at fairness and safety, the Minns Government reinstated portable roadside signage in April 2023, returning clear warnings before and after every mobile speed camera vehicle. Data from the months following the change showed an 88% drop in fines—from over 55,000 in 2022 to just 6,650 in the same period post-reintroduction.
The effect was immediate. In May and June 2023, only 1 in every 1,663 vehicles passing a camera vehicle was fined, compared to 1 in 311 during the same time the year prior.
The change ended years of public frustration after the 2020 signage removal by the previous Coalition government, which was accused of prioritising revenue over safety. While some signage was gradually returned in 2021 and 2022, the full rollout was delayed due to logistical issues with newer camera vehicles.
Minister for Roads John Graham said at the time:
"The results are in, with large falls in fine revenue as a result of the commonsense return of portable signage to the roadside around speed cameras."
"This is a remarkable drop in infringements, and it is yet more proof that if you give motorists clear signage for their awareness they respond in the right way and road safety is enhanced at those locations."
Dylan Anderson
As of 2025, the signage policy remains in place, with portable warning signs now standard across mobile speed camera operations statewide. According to the NSW Government, the focus has shifted toward proactive safety messaging and driver awareness, rather than relying solely on enforcement.
This change is part of a broader road safety strategy under the Minns Labor Government, including:
- Demerit point return trial rewarding safe drivers
- Expansion of mobile speed camera locations, now with over 2,700 additional sites
- Seatbelt and mobile phone detection through automated cameras
The reinstatement of signage is a clear signal that NSW is embracing a balanced approach to enforcement—one that focuses on reducing risk before it results in fines or crashes.
Speeding continues to be the top cause of road deaths in NSW, contributing to 41% of all fatalities in 2022. With clearer warnings and increased awareness, the aim is simple: slow drivers down before tragedy strikes.
And it appears to be working.
For NSW drivers in 2025, the message is clear: stick to the limit, watch for the signs, and arrive safely—without a fine in the mail.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
