If you’re still reaching for your phone behind the wheel, it’s time to break that habit—and fast. Starting October 8, 2025, Western Australia’s road safety cameras are switching from trial mode to full enforcement, and the penalties are nothing to sneeze at.
What’s Changed This October?
The state’s AI-powered safety cameras have been running in trial mode since January 26, 2025, during which over 275,000 drivers received warning notices for mobile phone use, seatbelt violations, and speeding offences. The grace period is now over, and the cameras positioned across Perth metro, Great Southern, and Mid West regions are ready to issue real fines.
Police Minister Reece Whitby called the shift to enforcement “a significant step forward in efforts to reduce trauma and save lives on Western Australian roads”.
The Fine Breakdown
Here’s what you’re facing if caught by these high-tech cameras:
| Offence Type | Fine Amount | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Holding or touching phone | $500 | 3 points |
| Texting, emailing, or social media | $1,000 | 4 points |
| Driver without seatbelt | $550 | 4 points |
| Each additional unrestrained passenger | +$100 | – |
| Passengers (16+) without seatbelt | $550 | – |
If you’re caught with four or more unrestrained passengers, the total fine can hit $900.
Why the Crackdown?
It’s not about revenue raising—it’s about saving lives. During the trial period, authorities recorded notable reductions in offences, with mobile phone detections from trailer-mounted cameras dropping by 60%, and fixed cameras recording a 33% decrease. The technology uses artificial intelligence to spot drivers doing the wrong thing, even at traffic lights. These cameras can identify whether you’re holding a phone, not wearing a seatbelt, or speeding—all without needing a copper on patrol.
What You Can Still Do
Don’t panic—you can still use your phone for navigation, but there are strict conditions. The phone must be securely mounted to your vehicle, and your route should be set before you start driving. Touching the phone to change navigation functions while driving will cost you that hefty $1,000 fine and four demerit points. Hands-free phone calls are also permitted, provided the phone stays in its cradle and you only touch it to accept or end calls.
With over 2.2 million registered drivers in WA, the message is crystal clear: put the phone down and concentrate on the road. The days of getting away with a quick scroll at the red lights are well and truly over.
All camera revenue goes into the Road Trauma Trust Account, funding programs designed to reduce injuries and deaths on WA roads—so at least your fine is going toward making our roads safer for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I touch my phone at a red light?
No. Even when stationary at traffic lights, touching your phone is illegal unless the car is parked and the engine is off. You’ll cop the full penalty if caught by the AI cameras.
2. What about rideshare and delivery drivers?
On-demand transport drivers can only touch their mounted phone to accept, confirm, or decline jobs, but this doesn’t apply in school zones or near emergency vehicles. Any other phone activity will result in fines.
3. Do P-platers and learners face tougher rules?
While the base penalties apply equally, provisional and learner drivers accumulate demerit points faster, meaning they can lose their licence more quickly. Young drivers should be extra vigilant.
4. Are these cameras operating 24/7?
Yes. The AI-powered cameras work around the clock, automatically detecting and recording offences. There’s no longer any “safe” time to chance it.
5. What if I genuinely need to make an emergency call?
In a genuine emergency, pull over safely and park your vehicle first. The few seconds it takes to park could save you $1,000 and keep everyone on the road safer.
