Mobile phone detection cameras: safety or revenue raising?

The world-first mobile phone detection camera technology targeting illegal mobile phone use was introduced by the New South Wales Government in December 2019.

The initiative was rolled out with an initial three month warning period whereby motorists who had been detected on their mobile phone were sent a warning notice. However as of 1 March 2020, drivers who are caught by the cameras are issued penalty notices carrying fines and demerit points.

The new system utilises high definition cameras which capture images from the front and side angle to detect both talking on the phone and handling phones illegally. The cameras integrate artificial intelligence and can operate in all weather conditions including fog and wet weather. Further, unlike speed cameras there is no requirement to warn motorist of the cameras presence.