New speed camera technology will target speeding drivers in school zones and roadworks across Queensland from September in a world-first road safety initiative.
At the launch of Road Safety Week (22 to 26 August), Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the cameras would pop up in high-risk locations.
Mr Bailey said the initiative reflects the theme of this year’s Queensland Road Safety Week, Road safety starts with me, highlighting every road user has a role to play in keeping themselves and others safe while on or near our roads.
“Every day, across the road network, yellow is used for safety reminders such as our warning signs, high-visibility workwear and even our learner driver plates,“ he said.
“We’re asking Queenslanders to ‘wear and share yellow’ to show their support for road safety by wearing an item of yellow clothing, hosting a yellow event, or sharing a safety message on social media.”
Superintendent Janelle Andrews said speeding was one of the leading causes of fatalities and serious injuries on Queensland’s roads.
“During 2021 there were 74 fatalities as the result of crashes involving speeding motorists, representing almost 27 per cent of Queensland road fatalities.
“Thousands more road users are seriously injured in crashes.
“No one wants to carry the guilt of the death or injury of a child walking to or from school, or a roadworker simply carrying out their job.“
TMR Director-General Neil Scales said the cameras were different for roadworks sites and school zones.
“Research has demonstrated a clear link between camera enforcement and reductions in speed-related fatalities and serious injuries,” Mr Scales said.
“We asked the contractor to design and build the solar-powered roadworks speed cameras to sit on top of a mobile platform to allow for manoeuvrability around a work site.
“At school zones, the cameras will be installed in specially designed, stationary school zone signs but can be moved around as needed.”
Traffic Management Association of Australia (TMAA) CEO Louise Van Ristell said the pilot would provide significant data regarding the number of drivers who continue to disregard speed reductions around worksites.
Mr Bailey also reminded drivers about increased penalties which came into effect on 1 July.
“Now if you speed 1-10km/h over the limit you will be fined $287 and one demerit point, and between 11-20km/h the fine is $431 and three demerit points,“ he said.
For more information about road safety around schools visit tmr.qld.gov.au
