A mobile phone detection camera is a tool to combat driver distraction and improve road safety. These cameras use cutting-edge technology to identify drivers illegally using mobile phones, in an effort to reduce crashes caused by distractions.
In December 2022, the Mobile Phone Detection Camera Program (MPDC) was rolled out by the NSW Government. This program checked over 135.3 million vehicles in 2022-23. On average, around 1in 649 drivers in NSW were found to be illegally using their mobile phone and were issued with a penalty notice. Between 2022-23, more than 208,600 fines were issued, amounting to $67.3 million. All these funds were directed into the Community Road Safety Fund, ensuring they will only be used for road safety purposes.
In this blog, we’ll cover how mobile phone detection cameras work, their benefits, where they’re located, privacy protections, penalties for offences in each state, and road safety programs you can take to become a safer road user.
How do mobile phone detection cameras work?
Mobile phone detection cameras use high-resolution cameras and AI software to identify drivers using mobile phones while driving. The system captures clear images of all passing vehicles, including the driver’s hands. The AI software then scans these images to detect if a mobile phone is being held or used. Any flagged images are then reviewed by authorised staff before fines are issued.
Whether fixed or mobile, the cameras can take high-resolution images of a vehicle’s front cabin space (where the front passengers are). They work day and night, in all weather conditions, and can capture vehicles travelling at speeds of up to 300km/h. Every vehicle passing the camera is photographed, ensuring widespread and consistent enforcement of road rules.
Benefits of mobile phone detection cameras
Mobile phone detection cameras have the potential to significantly reduce driver distraction and associated road crashes. In 2019, 1 in every 82 drivers was found to be using a mobile phone while driving. In the period of March 2022-February 2023, the rates had gone down to 1 in 597 drivers. Unlike manual methods, these cameras operate continuously, ensuring greater coverage and reducing the burden on police resources.
Studies show that using a mobile phone while driving increases crash risk by at least four times. At 60 km/h, if you look at your phone for just two seconds, you travel 33 metres, virtually blind. A short lapse in concentration can have serious consequences.
The deployment of these cameras is a crucial step in reducing this risk and saving lives. Between 2017-2021 in NSW, there were 13 deaths and 163 injuries from crashes involving a driver/rider using a handheld mobile phone. However, mobile phone use is difficult to obtain evidence of, resulting in what is likely to be underreporting in crash data.
Where are mobile phone detection cameras located?
Mobile phone detection cameras are strategically placed in high-risk locations such as major highways, intersections, and areas with a history of crashes caused by driver distraction. Their locations are often decided based on traffic data, crash statistics, and community feedback.
These cameras are used in NSW, Vic, QLD, ACT, SA and Tas. Some locations feature permanent installations, while others use mobile units to maximise coverage.
Protecting your privacy
Privacy is an important aspect of mobile phone detection cameras. According to government sources and the companies managing the systems, the images captured by these cameras are securely stored and can only be accessed by authorised staff. If no offence is detected, the images are deleted.
How are images of drivers reviewed?
Trained staff review images flagged by the AI system to confirm if a mobile phone was being used illegally. This two-step process ensures accuracy and fairness when issuing fines. If an offence is confirmed, the driver is issued a penalty notice.
Penalties for mobile phone use in each State
The following information is for guidance only – based on information accessed in September 2025. Always refer to the official road rules and regulations for the specific state or territory you drive in for the most up-to-date information.
New South Wales
- Fine: $423 ($562 in school zones)
- Demerit points: Five points
Licence-specific considerations:
- L and P1 holders: Immediate licence suspension and fine.
ACT
- Fine and demerit points:
- $674 and four demerit points – using a device for messaging, social networking, accessing apps or the internet.
- $548 and three demerit points – Using or holding the device for any other reason
Licence-specific considerations:
- L and P holders: A fine of up to $632 and four demerit points.
Queensland
- Fine: $1,251
- Demerit points: four points (double if caught again within 12 months)
Licence-specific considerations:
- L and P1 holders: Immediate penalties may lead to suspension.
- P2 holders: Points may result in a Good Behaviour Bond.
Victoria
- Fine: $611
- Demerit points: Four points
Licence-specific considerations:
- L and P1 holders: Higher likelihood of licence suspension.
Western Australia
- Fine: up to $1,000
- Demerit points: Four points
South Australia
- Fine: $573
- Demerit points: Three points
Licence-specific considerations:
- L and P1 holders: Higher penalties may apply for novice drivers.
Northern Territory
- Fine: $500
- Demerit points: Three points
Tasmania
- Fine: $410
- Demerit points: Three points
Join a road safety program with Road Sense Australia
At Road Sense Australia, we help drivers become safer and more responsible on the road. Our programs are designed to improve knowledge, skills, and promote safer habits. Here’s what we offer:
Drive It Home: This program focuses on identifying risks, improving hazard perception, and reducing distractions and fatigue while driving. It’s ideal for occupational drivers, employees, or anyone wanting to enhance their driving safety.
Traffic Offender Intervention Program: Designed for individuals with traffic offences, this program highlights the impact of unsafe driving to prevent reoffending.
Find out more about our programs today and take a step towards safer driving.
