State warns drivers as mobile cameras target new road rule with automatic purposes

Mobile detection cameras in another Aussie state now have the capability to detect more road offenses, with drivers warned that as of this week, they’re on the lookout for unregistered vehicles and will slap those in breach with automatic fines of more than $250.

After a recent upgrade, mobile speed cameras in Tasmania now have the ability to check the registration status of cars as they pass by, in addition to being able to spot speeding, mobile phone use behind the wheel and seatbelt offenses.

The announcement comes less than a month after road authorities in the state said they were reviewing how the cameras operated after a string of arson attacks on the devices, suspected to have occurred in the hands of the public.

In the wake of the attacks, they said the cameras would be moved around more frequently in a bid to keep them safe from vandals.

The move in Tasmania comes just weeks after the ACT updated its roadside camera technology to check motorists have proper insurance and registration, while also monitoring seatbelt and mobile phone use.

Transport minister’s warning to unregistered drivers

Tasmanian Transport Minister Eric Abetz said the cameras could be “anywhere at any given time”.

“As we have already said for speeding, mobile phone and incorrect seatbelt use – and now for registration – these cameras can be anywhere, anytime,” he said.

“Besides the risk of a $252.50 fine, it’s not fair that the majority of those who keep their registration up to date should have to pay for those who disregard their responsibilities. Registration fees are vital for compulsory third-party motor accident insurance, which covers “significant injury costs for hundreds of people injured in crashes each year.”

Abetz said that between May 14 and June 17 of this year, there were over 2,000 incidents of unregistered vehicles being driven on the state’s roads — which has the potential to cost taxpayers.

“We expect all vehicle operators to pay their fair share through their registration,” he said.

“Motorists are reminded that delaying re-registering their vehicle for 90 days or more requires their vehicle to be reassessed for roadworthiness at a considerable cost. Delaying registration is a false economy besides being irresponsible.”

Vandals repeatedly target mobile speed detection cameras in Tasmania

In July, a spokesperson for Tasmania’s Department of State Growth told Yahoo News Australia the authority was exploring new ways to keep drivers safe on the roads.

“After several suspected arson incidents in the first half of 2024, authorities are now reconsidering how best to roll out the cameras in their ongoing bid to reduce the likelihood of injuries and crashes on our roads,” the spokesperson said.

“The Department of State Growth has been working with its supplier to review camera deployment practices to minimize potential vandalism risk while ensuring speed camera enforcement continues to reduce the likelihood of injuries and crashes.

“This review is ongoing and in the interim, the department has focused on more frequent deployments but for shorter periods, allowing more parts of the road network to be monitored.”

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