New Traffic Camera Rule Starts 30th November Drivers Warned of Instant 1049 Fines in High Risk Zones

Across Australia drivers are preparing for a major enforcement shift as a new traffic camera rule begins on 30 November introducing instant 1049 fines in designated high risk zones. The updated system targets dangerous driving behaviours and expands the ability of automated cameras to issue penalties without the need for police interception. Many motorists say the change has created new urgency to review speed limits and driving habits.
Thirty two year old Liam from Townsville said he has already started paying closer attention to school zones and busy intersections. He shared that a single mistake could now cost more than a week of wages and he does not want to risk a penalty that large.
Here is what Australian drivers must know before the new rule takes effect.

What the New Camera Rule Means for Drivers

From 30 November upgraded traffic cameras will begin issuing immediate 1049 fines in high risk areas including known crash locations school precincts busy pedestrian corridors and major intersections. Drivers caught speeding using a phone failing to stop or committing other dangerous actions will receive the fine automatically.
The updated system is part of a national push to reduce road deaths and improve compliance in areas where serious incidents occur most frequently.

Key Features of the 30 November Camera Rule

• Automatic instant 1049 fines in high risk zones
• Expanded detection range for upgraded cameras
• Targeted focus on high injury and fatality locations
• Additional monitoring of mobile phone use and failure to stop
• No police interaction required for fines to be issued
Transport authorities say the rule is designed to reduce high impact crashes by increasing accountability at the most dangerous parts of the road network.

Real Stories Behind the New Enforcement Strategy

Case Example Liam from Townsville
Liam said he used to worry only about speed cameras but now realises upgraded sensors can detect a wider range of offences. He explained that this change pushed him to rethink how carefully he approaches busy intersections.
Case Example Sandra from Melbourne
Sandra who drives through school zones daily said the higher fine makes her far more aware of speed changes. She shared that children often step out unexpectedly and cameras catching unsafe drivers may help keep students safer.

Government Statements About the New Rule

Government officials say the introduction of instant fines in high risk zones reflects rising concern about driver distraction and non compliance. They explained that crash data shows a clear pattern of severe incidents occurring in the same locations year after year and the new rule aims to reduce repeat harm.
A spokesperson said the government remains committed to lowering the national road toll and believes the upgraded camera system will play an important role in prevention.

Comparison Table High Risk Zone Enforcement Before and After 30 November

Feature	Before 30 November	After 30 November
Camera Capabilities	Standard detection	Expanded detection including distraction
Maximum Fine in Target Zones	Lower penalties	Instant 1049 fine
Police Interaction	Sometimes required	Not required
Offence Range	Limited	Broader range of unsafe behaviours
Target Zone Coverage	Moderate	Increased coverage of high risk sites

What You Should Know

Drivers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with local high risk zones before the new rule begins.
• Offences will trigger automatic fines with no warnings
• Cameras can detect a wider range of dangerous driving
• Mobile phone detection is significantly improved
• Speeding near schools and pedestrian areas will attract the same 1049 penalty
• Drivers should check signage updates as some zones may expand
Motorists using older GPS systems may want to update their devices to ensure alerts reflect new enforcement areas.

Questions and Answers About the New 1049 Fine Rule

1. When does the rule begin
   The upgraded camera enforcement starts on 30 November.
2. Who can receive the 1049 fine
   Any driver committing targeted offences in high risk zones.
3. What are high risk zones
   Areas with repeated crashes such as school zones intersections and pedestrian corridors.
4. Do cameras need police verification
   No fines are issued automatically.
5. Can the cameras detect phone use
   Yes upgraded systems detect mobile phone distraction.
6. Is there a warning period
   No the fines begin immediately.
7. Can provisional drivers be fined
   Yes all licence classes are included.
8. Will points be added
   Yes demerit points accompany the fine depending on the offence.
9. Are the fines the same in all states
   Amounts may vary slightly but most jurisdictions follow the same model.
10. Can drivers appeal
    Yes appeals follow the standard fine review process.
11. Are cameras active 24 hours
    Most high risk zones will operate full time.
12. Will temporary high risk zones be added
    Authorities may expand zones based on seasonal or event based risks.
13. Can tourists be fined
    Yes all drivers on Australian roads are subject to the rule.
14. Are businesses affected
    Company cars will receive fines issued to registered owners.
15. Will the fine increase in future
    Further adjustments depend on national road safety reviews.