AI Seatbelt Cameras and the Surge in Fines: What the Data Shows

AI-assisted seatbelt cameras have made it possible to detect whether a belt is being worn—and, in some cases, whether it appears to be positioned incorrectly. Recorded infringements rose sharply as camera enforcement expanded, but the available figures do not prove that unsafe seatbelt use itself increased at the same rate. In NSW, the NRMA says most infringements in its 2024–25 analysis were for incorrect use rather than for not wearing a belt at all. 18

Fines rose as camera detection expanded

Across Australia, reported seatbelt infringements increased from 85,768 in 2023 to 183,315 in 2024, a rise of about 114%. Cameras detected 160,659 of the 2024 infringements—87.6% of the total, according to the National Road Safety Data Hub. 817

One comparison reports that NSW infringements rose by about 690% between 2023 and 2024, to 80,970. That period includes the start of NSW seatbelt-camera enforcement on 1 July 2024, so the change in recorded fines should not be read as a like-for-like measure of how much people’s behaviour changed. 7817

The available material does not support a reliable, comparable 2023–24 increase for Tasmania and Victoria. Tasmania’s mobile cameras were enhanced to detect seatbelt offences from August 2023; the national data dictionary also warns that Victoria’s 2024 data volumes were low because of protected industrial action. Those differences make simple state-by-state comparisons difficult. 9

Why a fastened belt can still be classed as incorrect use

A seatbelt must be both fastened and properly adjusted. NSW guidance says it must be “properly fastened and adjusted”; Queensland’s guidance describes the sash running over the shoulder and across the chest, with the lap section low across the pelvic area. 2125

That distinction is relevant when someone uses a cushion or pillow for comfort. If an added support shifts the sash away from the shoulder or chest, or moves the lap section away from the pelvis, the belt may no longer follow the recommended path. But the sources here do not show how many camera fines involved pillows, whether every pillow changes belt fit, or whether older people are disproportionately affected. 2125

For pregnancy, Transport for NSW advises placing the lap section as low as possible, under the abdomen and across the upper thighs. It also says a sash guide may improve comfort if the belt does not follow its natural line. 22

What the NRMA’s NSW figures show

The NRMA reports that 126,728 seatbelt infringements were included in its 2024–25 NSW analysis. Of those, 111,521—or 88%—were for incorrect use rather than not wearing a seatbelt. The report says 62% of offences involved passengers, and that 16% of motorists surveyed did not always wear a seatbelt correctly. 119

The passenger figure raises an accountability question: the NRMA says drivers currently receive the penalty for camera-detected offences involving passengers and wants drivers to be able to nominate the responsible adult passenger. NSW rules place responsibility on drivers to ensure passengers are properly restrained, while passengers over 16 also have obligations to wear a properly secured and adjusted belt. 1921

What the NRMA wants—and what the sources establish about Queensland

The NRMA is calling for clearer public education about correct seatbelt fit, greater passenger accountability and better reporting of the kinds of offences detected. Its report advocates a statewide education campaign; other material says education should address groups including pregnant women. 1019

The source material provided here does not verify a Queensland change that lets drivers nominate adult passengers for camera-detected offences, or establish when such a change took effect. Queensland’s published guidance confirms its seatbelt-positioning rules, and the state has mobile-phone and seatbelt cameras, but those sources do not establish the claimed change in who receives a camera-detected penalty. 2526

The figures make one point clear: camera-era infringement totals include many cases classified as incorrect belt use. They do not, on their own, explain why a belt was worn incorrectly, how often comfort aids were involved, or whether a fine was issued in error. Better guidance and more detailed reporting would help answer those questions. 1919