Road camera upgrade looming in Vic

Victoria Police is set to upgrade its network of mobile speed cameras to utilise the latest advances in camera technology

The Victorian State Government has announced it has released a tender to enhance the state's network of mobile speed cameras.

A part of the Napthine Government's $17.1 million commitment to upgrading the state's road safety technology announced in the 2012-13 State Budget, the Victorian Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Kim Wells, said the upgrade underlines the Government's focus on lowering the road toll while striving to be a world leader in road safety.

"Technology in this area is advancing rapidly and we will explore all options to make Victoria's road safety camera network as strong as it can be," he said.

"We will be looking at everything the market has to offer, including the potential to capture front and rear licence plates and speeding vehicles across multiple lanes.

"We know the majority of motorists do the right thing and comply with the speed limit. The latest advances in technology can assist us in catching those who don't."

The upgrade is also a part of Victoria's 10-year Road Safety Strategy.

"This new technology will send a strong message to all road users – take your time; it's cheaper than a fine," said Mr Wells.

In the 2012-13 financial year a total of 509,325 infringement notices were issued from the state's mobile speed cameras, the resulting fines swelling government coffers by $103,773,269. The total camera network, including mobile, fixed and point-to-point cameras, saw 1,292,991 infringements issued, with fines totalling $293,157,040.

The camera that generated the highest revenue during the 2012-13 financial year is located at the intersection of Dandenong-Frankston Road and Skye Road, in Frankston. Over that 12-month period the camera issued 13,396 infringements totalling $2,983,679.

A total of 242 fatalities were recorded on Victorian roads in 2013 – the lowest figure since 1924.

While authorities are quick to claim the figure as a major victory for its road safety program, it's fair to say improving roads, graduated licencing and safer vehicles are also major contributing factors.

As of August 6, 2014, a total of 150 fatalities had been recorded on the state's roads, the figure representing an increase of 6.4 per cent on the corresponding 2013 period.

For a full listing of Victoria's fixed camera locations and the fines they've issued visit www.camerassavelives.vic.gov.au/.

Road camera upgrade looming in Vic

Tags