The upgrade of AI phone and seatbelt detection cameras

In March 2026, mobile phone and seatbelt cameras were upgraded to a highly coordinated, nationwide AI system. Here is what you need to know to avoid that hefty fine while still showing safe car driving behaviour.

Transport for NSW officially upgraded its fleet of mobile cameras to a world-first bi-directional system. The 2019-era cameras were limited to two lanes of traffic, making them less effective on busy multi-lane roads or in areas with high traffic density from both directions.

Now, due to a hardware and software overhaul, these units can monitor both directions simultaneously. This means that passing the camera doesn't mean you’re in the clear; the AI has already captured both your front and rear windscreen before you’ve even checked your mirrors. This has increased the probability of catching offenders in high-volume, single-lane or dual-directional locations.

Technology and accuracy

These cameras were efficient but required high contrast environments and sometimes missed subtle offences in low light areas. The new units utilise advanced infrared flash technology that penetrates windscreens regardless of sun glare, heavy rain, or darkness. This reduces image noise in the images, allowing the AI to identify subtle offences, like a phone resting on a thigh that older cameras might have missed.

So what exactly can this upgraded technology detect?

The seatbelt trap

It isn’t just about having the belt clicked in anymore; the AI is now specifically trained to detect the "under the arm" tuck.

In NSW and QLD, if your seatbelt is tucked under your arm for "comfort," it is legally deemed as not wearing a seatbelt at all. Even more importantly for drivers, you are legally responsible for your passengers. If the AI catches your passenger wearing their belt incorrectly, you (the driver) get the fine and the points. Before you start driving, make sure everyone’s sash is over the shoulder and properly adjusted.

Prevalence of mobile phone use

Because of the increased reach and accuracy of these updated cameras in previously unmonitored areas or smaller roads,, there is now a higher chance of catching mobile phone use while driving.

At the start of the program, the detection rate was 1 in 400 vehicles; today, that has dropped to 1 in 1,200. This shift highlights a significant move toward preventative driving behaviour, as the increased "reach" of these cameras on smaller and regional roads makes mobile phone use a much higher risk for motorists.

"The tech has reached a point where 'hiding' your phone is a thing of the past. We’re seeing a massive surge in customers looking for vehicles with integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s no longer a luxury; it’s a legal necessity to stay hands-free" says Peter Willis, Carma's Director of Buying. "At the same time, we have to remind our P-Plater and Learner customers that for them, these hands-free options cannot legally be used."

Can they detect incorrectly?

To combat "false positives" (where AI mistakes a wallet or a chocolate bar for a phone), governments have introduced a two-tier review system:

• AI filter: the high-resolution sensors (using infrared flash that penetrates windscreens even in glare) flag a potential offence.
• Proper screening: every flagged image is now reviewed by a real person before the fine is mailed.
• The hand-held myth in 2026, you don't have to be using the phone. The law across VIC, NSW, and QLD states that if the phone is touching any part of your body (lap, shoulder, or hand) while the engine is running, even at a red light. The fine is automatic.

How much can they fine you?

While the technology is nationwide, the penalties vary wildly depending on which side of the state border you’re on. Queensland has officially taken the crown for the most expensive distraction fines in the country.

• Queensland: the penalty for illegal mobile phone use or an unrestrained passenger is a staggering $1,251 and 4 demerit points. The state also enforces a strict "Double Jeopardy" rule where a second mobile phone offence within 12 months costs 8 points, often leading to an instant license suspension.
• New South Wales: NSW drivers face a $423 fine ($562 in school zones) and 5 demerit points for illegal phone use, while seatbelt offences carry a $423 fine and 3 demerit points.
• Western Australia: $700 fine for phone use and $550 for seatbelts.
• Victoria: you can expect a $611 fine and 4 points for phones.
• Northern Territory: Using a mobile phone while driving or improperly fastening your seatbelt both result in a $500 fine and 3 demerit points.
• South Australia: Mobile phone use results in a $556 fine, $106 levy and 3 demerit points.
• Tasmania: Mobile phone use or incorrect seatbelt worn results in roughly a $410 fine and 3 demerit points.
• ACT Using a mobile phone can result in a fine from $548 to $674 and 3-4 demerit points depending on if it’s holding or texting. Incorrect seatbelt wear incurs a $574 fine and 3 demerit points.

So what should you do?

Stop the fines before they hit your mailbox. Run through this list before you shift into drive.

• Phone mounts are mandatory: if it's not in a commercially designed mount, don't touch it.
• The lap is forbidden: AI cameras use a "steep downward angle" specifically to look into your lap.
• Check your sash: make sure your seatbelt is over your shoulder, not tucked under your arm for "comfort."
• Passenger accountability: as the driver, you are fined for every passenger caught by the AI. Do a "belt check" for everyone in the car before pulling away.

The 2026 AI detection technology upgrade isn’t about catching you out; it’s about changing habits. Distraction and seatbelt non-compliance remain two of the biggest contributors to the road toll. By staying focused and keeping your tech in its mount, you’re not just saving your license; you’re keeping everyone on the road a little bit safer.

If your current car’s tech is making it hard to stay hands-free, it might be time for an upgrade. Check out our range and find a ride that helps you stay safe on the road.