Tasmania's mobile road safety camera program has proven to be a significant source of revenue for the state, generating close to $10 million in fines over a 12-month period. This has sparked debate about the primary purpose of these cameras and their effectiveness in improving road safety.
For the 12 months ending October 1, 2024:
- Total fines generated: Approximately $9.5 million
- Number of infringements: Nearly 60,000
Breakdown of offences:
- Speeding: 53,249 tickets, $7.12 million in fines
- Seatbelt violations: 3,732 notices, $1.46 million in fines
- Mobile phone use: 1,622 offences, $635,750 in penalties
- Registration offences: 1,253 cases, $309,600 in fines
Government Stance and Criticism
The Tasmanian government maintains that these cameras serve as an effective deterrent against speeding and other risky driving behaviours. However, critics argue that the primary function of these cameras appears to be revenue generation rather than improving road safety.
Camera Deployment and Management
- 16 mobile speed cameras are currently available for deployment across Tasmania
- Recent arson attacks have led to fluctuations in the number of operational cameras
- A review of camera placement and operating hours is underway
The mobile speed camera program is managed collaboratively:
- Department of State Growth
- Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management
- Day-to-day operations outsourced to Sensys Gatso Australia
- Tasmania Police officers review and approve all infringements before issuance
As the debate over the role of mobile road safety cameras continues, it remains to be seen whether the significant revenue generated will lead to increased road safety measures or if alternative strategies will be explored to reduce traffic violations in Tasmania.
