Examining the Impact of Seatbelt Cameras on Fines, Safety, and Public Perception

Isabel was surprised to discover she had broken the law when she received three fines in the mail. The fines, totaling over $1,200 and nine demerit points, were all for seatbelt violations within a single week in Sydney. She had been helping a friend move house at the time. Initially, Isabel couldn't believe it, as she always wears her seatbelt. Upon reviewing the pictures taken by a detection camera, she realized she had been fined for wearing it incorrectly, as she often puts the seatbelt under her arm due to her height.

Isabel's experience is shared by many in New South Wales who have been fined since July 2024, when the state government expanded its use of cameras to detect seatbelt compliance. In the first year of the new technology, revenue from seatbelt fines increased dramatically, rising by 1,400% to almost $59 million. The government states that the money collected from these fines, which are over $400 each, is reinvested in road safety initiatives.

While the majority of drivers and passengers are compliant, a small percentage are found to be in violation. The majority of these offenders were wearing their seatbelts incorrectly. However, it appears that people are learning from the new system, as offenses decreased significantly in July 2025 compared to the previous year. The images captured by the cameras are reviewed by staff before any fines are issued. Isabel successfully had two of her fines forgiven after requesting a review.

Kris Savic also sought a review of his fine after being caught wearing his seatbelt under his arm. He explained he had undergone chest surgery. However, his request was denied because he did not provide a medical certificate. Savic admitted he was unaware that wearing the seatbelt in that manner was against the law.

Governments are increasingly using AI technology to enforce road safety regulations. In addition to seatbelt cameras, AI-powered cameras that detect mobile phone use were also introduced. The seatbelt cameras were implemented to reduce road fatalities, as non-usage of seatbelts was a factor in a significant percentage of deaths. However, road fatalities have increased this year compared to the previous year.

Peter Khoury, a spokesperson for NRMA, believes that while AI technology has a role in road safety, police presence remains crucial. He also emphasized the importance of protecting privacy. Camilla Pandolfini, the chief executive of the Redfern Legal Centre, expressed concerns about the automation of issuing fines, particularly regarding potential disadvantages for vulnerable individuals.

The NSW roads minister, Jenny Aitchison, stated that the seatbelt cameras were introduced to encourage seatbelt use. She highlighted that the cameras can check every vehicle on NSW roads multiple times a year, a task that police alone cannot accomplish. She also noted that increased enforcement often leads to more penalties initially, followed by a decrease as people adapt to the new regulations.