Safety switch: NSW sets date for average speed camera trial for light vehicles

It's official—average speed cameras will switch to warning mode for regular motorists in two critical regional stretches in New South Wales starting 1 May. The trial, sparked by recommendations from last year's NSW Road Safety Forum, is set to target a 15-kilometre stretch of the Pacific Highway from Kew to Lake Innes and a 16-kilometre run along the Hume Highway between Coolac and Gundagai. 

These stretches were chosen with good reason. Between 2018 and 2022, these roads saw six fatalities and 33 serious injuries—a stark reminder of the poor road safety record on regional roads. 

In contrast to other states, NSW has so far used average speed cameras exclusively for heavy vehicles. Yet, recent data paints a clear picture—around 80% of serious crashes and fatalities at the existing 31 camera-equipped sections have not involved trucks. In fact, NSW stands alone among Australian states in restricting average speed enforcement to just heavy vehicles. Other states either already target all road users or plan to jump on board soon, following global evidence that average speed cameras significantly reduce road trauma, if applied to passenger vehicles. 

Warning letters to give way to real fines 

From 1 May, light vehicle drivers caught exceeding the speed limit by 30km/h or less, will receive a cautionary tap on the shoulder in the form of a warning letter. However, if drivers exceed the speed limit by more than 30km/h, they will be fined and penalties apply.

From 1 July, the trial moves into full swing and drivers caught speeding after that can expect fines and demerit points. The cameras will continue to keep an eye on heavy vehicles as before.

Drivers will have no excuse for not knowing about the trial, says the NSW Government. The switch to fines will be accompanied by print and radio announcements, social media blasts, mobile billboards, and even variable messaging signs to spread the word.

Minister for Roads, John Graham, said: "Speed remains our biggest killer on the roads, responsible for 41 per cent of all fatalities in the last decade. International research consistently shows that average speed cameras dramatically reduce accidents and fatalities." 

Regional communities a priority

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, recognises the trial may raise a few eyebrows, especially in regional communities. However, she noted in an announcement that regional roads are a hot spot for speed-related crashes.

"Two-thirds of road deaths occur outside metro areas, even though only a third of the population lives there," she said. "We picked these regional stretches specifically to see how effective average speed cameras might be at turning things around."

Fair play and proven results

Average speed cameras are widely viewed as a fairer way to manage speed—tracking average pace over a longer stretch rather than pinging drivers for a split-second slip-up. NSW research backs this up, with 68% of drivers agreeing these cameras help improve road safety.

International studies underline the benefits. Norway recorded a 49% drop in serious crashes after introducing average speed cameras, and a similar UK study showed a 36% reduction.

The NSW trial is set to last 14 months, with the state government reporting its findings to Parliament in 2026. It's still early days but authorities are betting it'll make a noticeable difference to regional road safety.