AI traffic cameras in Western Australia overturn $1 million in seatbelt fines
AI-powered seatbelt detection cameras deployed in Western Australia from October 2025 issued over 53,000 fines worth $29 million in six months, but more than $1 million in fines were subsequently withdrawn after review. The system mistakenly fined drivers multiple times on the same day and for passenger seatbelt violations the driver could not control.
What happened
Advanced technology safety cameras using AI went live in Western Australia in October 2025 to detect seatbelt violations. The cameras issued 53,000 seatbelt fines in the first six months, generating over $29 million in revenue.
Reported impact
About 2,050 fines worth more than $1 million have been withdrawn after review. A total of 3,381 fines were appealed and approximately 60 per cent were cancelled. Some drivers received multiple fines on the same day for the same offence, and others were fined when their passengers were recorded not wearing seatbelts correctly.
Index analysis
The Department of Transport stated that 99 per cent of infringements were issued correctly, while less than 4 per cent of all seatbelt fines issued had been withdrawn. A dummy eight-month soft launch detected 114,000 seatbelt offences, more than double the number of actual fines issued in the first six months of live operation.
Governance controls
Road Safety Minister Reece Whitby requested a major review of all infringements by the Road Safety Commissioner, with completion expected in 2027. More AI traffic cameras are planned to be rolled out in a staged approach.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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