Released 20/02/2024
From today, motorists caught using their mobile device while driving by fixed and transportable mobile device detection cameras will be issued an infringement and demerit points.
Police will also continue issuing infringements for driver mobile distraction.
The community is reminded that it has been an offence to use a mobile device while driving in the ACT for over 20 years.
Infringements for offences detected by the cameras result in fines of $514 and three demerit points.
Motorists who are detected using their mobile device while driving can expect to receive an infringement notice in their mailbox by early March.
The start of infringements follows a three-month warning period which saw cameras detect over 18,000 Canberrans using their mobile device while driving.
Canberra drivers are urged to make road safety a priority to get all road users home safely.
Since the introduction of mobile device detection cameras across Canberra in February 2023, over 63,000 drivers have been detected using mobile devices while driving, equating to 180 drivers daily.
While the monthly detection rate for the transportable and fixed cameras is gradually decreasing over time, there are still too many people using their mobile device while driving, putting all other road users at risk.
The ACT Government understands that some Canberra households are facing cost of living pressures. Payment plans will be available for vulnerable members of the community who may struggle to pay the infringement in full.
More information on payment plans is available at www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/driving-transport-and-parking/traffic-and-parking/ways-to-pay-a-fine-infringement.
For more information on Canberra’s mobile device detection cameras visit www.cityservices.act.gov.au/roads-and-paths/road-safety/mobile-distraction.
- Statement ends -
ACT Chief Minister and Treasury Directorate | Media Releases
«ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases