Victoria’s new distracted driver cameras have caused a significant reduction in illegal phone use by drivers, according to the latest figures from the state government.
Compared to the same period last year there has been a 36% reduction in the number of infringements issued.
The cameras detect mobile phone infringements and seatbelt offences.
In Quarter 3 2024–25 there were 19,063 infringements issued for not wearing a seatbelt properly or for using a device while driving, while during the same time last year there were 29,832 infringements issued.
The reduction is significant as the cameras are now operating for increased hours each day.
Figures were also released for red light running that show in the 2023–24 financial year 3,373 drivers were caught each week, a 9% increase over the previous year.
During the same year speeding offences dipped 2%, with 3,126 drivers caught speeding by cameras each day.
The penalty for using a mobile phone while driving is $611 and four demerit points and the penalty for driving without a seatbelt is $407 and three demerit points.
There are currently nine distracted driver and seatbelt camera trailers operating in Victoria that can be deployed anywhere at any time, including in regional areas.
The latest Road Safety Camera Statistics are available here.
Minister for Police, Anthony Carbines, said: “I’m glad more Victorians are getting the message on road safety and doing the right thing, keeping themselves and others safer on the road.
“We can’t count this as job done, however. To those who are doing the wrong thing – these cameras are still watching and will catch you.”
Transport Accident Commission Head of Road Safety, Sam Cockfield, said: “It’s encouraging to see a drop in the number of infringements issued by distracted driver and seatbelt cameras, but we cannot afford to get complacent.
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