New South Wales has generated almost $59 million from AI-powered seatbelt detection cameras in their first year of operation, representing a 1,400 per cent increase in fine revenue compared to traditional enforcement methods.
The state government expanded its camera network in July 2024, enabling automated detection of seatbelt violations across NSW roads, reports The Guardian.
The technology scanned 140 million vehicles during 2024-25, issuing 132,698 penalties worth over $400 each. This compares to just 9,529 penalties generating $3.7 million in the previous financial year using conventional enforcement.
Despite the massive scanning operation, only 0.09 per cent of drivers or passengers committed seatbelt offences, suggesting high overall compliance rates. Among violations detected, 88 per cent involved incorrect seatbelt wearing rather than complete non-usage.
The AI system flags suspicious images for human review by Revenue NSW staff before fines are issued, combining automated detection with human verification processes.
Early effectiveness indicators show promise, with seatbelt offences declining 60 per cent in July 2025 compared to the technology’s initial deployment period in July 2024.
NSW has simultaneously implemented AI-powered mobile phone detection cameras as of July 2025, expanding automated traffic violation enforcement capabilities.
Deaths have increased
The camera deployment addresses road safety concerns, with government data indicating 15 per cent of road fatalities involve seatbelt non-usage. However, NSW road deaths have increased to 251 this year from 208 in the same period last year.
NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison emphasised the technology’s comprehensive coverage capabilities, stating cameras check every vehicle approximately 20 times annually, far exceeding traditional police patrol capacity.
Privacy advocates and legal organisations have raised concerns about automated fine systems, particularly regarding impacts on disadvantaged communities who may struggle to challenge incorrect penalties.
The NRMA supports AI technology for road safety whilst advocating for continued visible police presence as the primary enforcement mechanism.
The revenue generated from fines is reinvested into road safety programmes, according to the state government.
