Minns to switch on average speed cameras for cars

Average speed cameras for cars are being switched on in just over six weeks as the Minns government pushes ahead with the controversial rollout.

Average speed cameras for cars are being switched on in just over six weeks as the Minns government pushes ahead with the controversial rollout.

The Sunday Telegraph revealed last year the government would be extending the use of “point to point” cameras to light vehicles to bring down the state’s soaring road toll.

The cameras – which calculate average speed – already record trucks at 37 locations across NSW.

It can now be revealed the cameras will be switched on at two locations on May 1 as part of an ongoing trial.

Cars and other light vehicles will now be speed checked across a 15km stretch of the Pacific Highway between Kew and Lake Innes while cameras on the Hume Highway will measure speeds over a 16km stretch between Coolac and Gundagai.

Average speed cameras for cars are being switched on in just over six weeks.

The two stretches of road were chosen for a variety of factors, including known crash history. Between 2018 and 2022, there were a combined total of six fatalities and 33 serious injuries at both locations.

While the cameras are being switched on, the government will grant motorists a two-month period of grace before the enforcement period begins, with drivers caught speeding to be sent a warning letter. From July 1, those detected speeding will face fines and demerit point penalties.

Existing enforcement of heavy vehicle offences at these sites will continue.

Road signs will also notify all drivers that their speed is being monitored by the cameras on the trial stretches, giving them the opportunity to adjust their speed as needed.

Studies around the world have shown average speed enforcement leads to significant reductions in crash-related injuries and fatalities.

In NSW, data shows that, in the five years to 2022, almost 80 per cent of all fatalities and serious injuries across all existing average speed camera lengths in NSW did not involve a heavy vehicle.

Roads Minister John Graham said speed remained the biggest killer on the road, contributing to 41 per cent of all fatalities over the past decade.

“We know the trial will be a change for motorists in NSWs, so it will be supported by community and stakeholder communications,” he said. “All average speed camera locations have warning signs.”

The government will report back to parliament on the outcomes of the trial in 2026.

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