Average-speed cameras have been a fixture on Australian roads for decades, but did you know they may not apply to all vehicles? Introduced in Victoria in 1985 as part of a trial, these cameras have since spread across the country in an effort to reduce speed related accidents, particularly on highways and freeways. However, there can be confusion about how they work and whether they apply to cars or just trucks.
How Do Average-Speed Cameras Work?
Also known as ‘point-to-point cameras’, average-speed cameras are placed along long stretches of road. Unlike traditional speed cameras that catch you speeding at one point, these cameras calculate your average speed over a distance and fine you if you exceed the pre-set limit.
According to the Victorian Government: “Two or more point-to-point cameras work together as a system. They are placed at individual points along a stretch of road, calculating the average speed of vehicles between two points.”
Sensors detect a vehicle passing, while cameras capture the speed and take time-stamped digital images to match number plates for verification. If your travel time between two points is faster than expected, the system flags the incident for review.
Do Average-Speed Cameras Apply to Cars?
While several states use average-speed cameras to capture trucks speeding, not all apply to cars.
States and their rules:
Victoria
In Victoria, point-to-point speed cameras along the Hume Freeway and Peninsula Link monitor all vehicles. These zones are not specifically signposted, but you’ll see a warning saying, “Road safety cameras operate in this area,” before entering a monitored stretch. Importantly, you can’t speed into the zone and then slow down between cameras to avoid a fine—the cameras also monitor your entry speed.
New South Wales
NSW has 35 average-speed camera locations, but they have traditionally applied only to heavy vehicles, not cars. As of September 2024, the state began trialling average-speed cameras for light vehicles on the Hume Highway and Pacific Highway. During the trial, light vehicles will receive a warning letter if speeding, with no fine or demerits. If successful, cameras may be activated across all 35 locations for all vehicles.
Queensland
Queensland has 14 fixed average-speed cameras between Brisbane, Toowoomba, and the Sunshine Coast, all of which monitor all vehicles. The locations are signposted, so you’ll know when you’re entering a monitored zone. It’s unclear whether the cameras will fine you for entry and exit speeds, so caution is advised.
Australian Capital Territory
The ACT has one average-speed camera located on Hindmarsh Drive. This camera monitors all traffic passing through, with signs placed before each detection point. As with other states, it’s best to exercise caution regarding entry and exit speeds.
Tasmania
Tasmania doesn’t currently have point-to-point cameras but plans to trial them using 16 mobile speed cameras, though no official start date has been announced.
South Australia
South Australia has eight average-speed camera locations, all of which detect all vehicles. The zones are signposted with warnings, and it’s unclear whether fines are issued for exceeding the speed at entry and exit points. The locations include roads such as Port Wakefield Road and Victor Harbor Road.
Western Australia
Western Australia has two average-speed camera locations along Forrest Highway, capturing all vehicles. These zones are signposted, and you can be fined for both entry/exit speed and average speed. If you’re caught speeding at both locations, you may receive more than one fine, depending on the nature of the offence.
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory does not have any average-speed camera locations. Lucky them.
So, do average-speed cameras apply to cars? It depends on your state and location, so always be mindful of posted signs and road conditions.
