Seatbelt Detection Cameras Begin Operation Soon in NSW

Introduced as a tool to save lives, cameras used to detect drivers not wearing seatbelts in Australia have been controversial owing to problems with accuracy.

Traffic is seen at a standstill on the M5 motorway westbound, in Sydney, Australia, on Jan. 5, 2020. Jenny Evans/Getty Images

From the start of July, drivers in New South Wales (NSW) will cop hefty fines if seatbelt detection cameras prove they are not buckled up, but critics say its use in other states has shown the technology is intrusive and inaccurate.

Following similar implementations in Queensland and Victoria and after a period of system testing, NSW drivers will be pinged with a fine of $387 (US$257) and three demerit points if proven to be not wearing a seatbelt from July 1.