New Traffic Camera Rule Starts 30th November — Drivers Warned of Instant $1,049 Fines in High-Risk Zones

Australian drivers are being urged to prepare for a major enforcement shift beginning 30 November, as new traffic camera rules come into force nationwide. The update will allow advanced AI-enabled cameras to instantly issue fines of $1,049 in high-risk zones, including school areas, major intersections and accident-prone corridors. For Brisbane commuter Alicia Morton, the change feels “like a wake-up call for anyone who’s gotten too comfortable bending the rules”.

Authorities say the new system is designed to reduce collisions caused by speeding, phone use and red-light breaches. With data showing that road fatalities have climbed in several states, the government argues the tighter rules will save lives — but drivers worry about the steep penalties and the potential for honest mistakes to become costly.

What’s Changing on 30 November

• AI-powered traffic cameras will automatically issue $1,049 fines for selected high-risk offences.
• Cameras will operate in expanded high-risk areas, including school zones, busy intersections and pedestrian corridors.
• Offences include speeding, illegal phone use, seatbelt breaches and running red lights.
• Penalties may include licence demerit points in addition to the fine.
• Notices will be issued digitally for drivers with online accounts and by mail for others.

Real Stories Behind the Policy

Truck driver Samir Wadhwa from Western Sydney said the new rules will push drivers to be more disciplined. “I see people on their phones every single day. Maybe a thousand-dollar fine is what it takes,” he said.

However, 31-year-old university student Chloe Parker worries about the severity. “One slip in a school zone could wipe out my entire savings. I get the safety aspect, but the penalty is enormous,” she said.

Government Statements

A spokesperson for the Transport and Infrastructure Ministry said the new rules reflect strong public support for tougher measures in dangerous areas. “High-risk zones require high-impact enforcement. Every offence in these areas increases the risk of a serious injury or fatality,” the spokesperson said.

Officials said AI technology reduces human error and improves the consistency of enforcement, ensuring drivers are treated equally regardless of time or location.

Analysis and Data Insight

Road safety reports show that approximately 26 percent of serious crashes occur in high-risk zones, particularly at intersections and school precincts. Mobile phone use while driving remains one of the fastest-growing contributors to near-miss incidents.

AI-enabled enforcement has already improved compliance in early pilot programs, reducing average speeds by up to 11 percent in school zones. Officials expect similar outcomes as the system expands.

Comparison Table: Current vs New Camera Enforcement

Category	Before 30 Nov	After 30 Nov
Fine for high-risk offences	Varied by state	$1,049 nationally aligned
Camera technology	Standard detection	AI-driven detection and instant issuing
Enforcement zones	Limited zones	Expanded to schools, intersections, high-risk areas
Notification method	Mostly postal	Digital + postal
Demerit points	Applied selectively	Applied consistently with national rules

What You Should Know

Drivers should take steps now to prepare for the updated enforcement model:

• Review local school zone and intersection rules.
• Avoid holding or touching your phone at any time while driving.
• Ensure seatbelts are fitted correctly before moving.
• Slow down in designated high-risk areas, especially during peak hours.
• Keep contact details updated with your state transport authority for digital notices.

Q&A Section

1. When do the new $1,049 fines start?
   From 30 November nationwide.
2. Do all offences attract the same fine?
   Only selected high-risk offences detected by AI cameras.
3. Will I also lose demerit points?
   Yes, most offences carry demerits in addition to the fine.
4. Are the rules the same in every state?
   Yes, the new enforcement model is nationally aligned.
5. Do the cameras detect phone use?
   Yes, advanced sensors and AI algorithms can detect illegal phone handling.
6. Can I be fined for touching my phone at a red light?
   Yes, illegal phone use applies even when stopped.
7. Do the cameras operate at night?
   Yes, they use infrared and low-light technology.
8. Will warning signs be posted?
   Most high-risk zones will have signage, but not all locations are required to display warnings.
9. Are school zones targeted?
   Yes, they are one of the primary focus areas.
10. Can fines be appealed?
    Yes, standard appeal processes apply.
11. What if I recently moved house?
    Update your address immediately to avoid missing fines.
12. Do learners and provisional drivers face higher penalties?
    They face the same fine but may reach suspension thresholds more quickly.
13. Can I receive multiple fines in one day?
    Yes, if separate offences occur.
14. Does this apply to motorcyclists?
    Yes, the rules apply to all vehicles.
15. Will the AI cameras store personal data?
    Data is retained only for enforcement and compliance purposes under strict regulations.