Queensland is increasingly using AI traffic cameras to detect drivers using mobile phones or not wearing seatbelts. While these systems help enforce road safety, a recent report from the Queensland Audit Office has raised concerns about privacy, oversight, and data handling. Understanding how these AI systems work—and the rules around them—is crucial for drivers and the general public.
How AI Traffic Cameras Work
The Mobile Phone and Seatbelt Technology Program uses AI-enabled cameras to monitor compliance with traffic laws.
- Number of cameras: 9 key locations in Queensland.
- Vehicles monitored: Over 208 million in 2024.
- Potential offences flagged: 137,000.
- Fines issued: 114,000.
- Revenue generated: More than $137 million.
Process for Handling Offences
- AI Detection: Cameras automatically flag potential breaches, such as phone use or seatbelt non-compliance.
- First Review: An external company checks flagged images to confirm violations.
- Final Review: Queensland Revenue Office performs a second verification before issuing fines.
While AI speeds up detection, the audit revealed that some privacy and oversight rules are not fully followed, and the system lacks sufficient human review in certain cases.
Privacy Concerns and Ethical Issues
The audit highlighted key privacy risks:
- Cameras capture images of drivers, passengers, and visitors from other regions.
- Data storage and security practices need improvement.
- Errors in AI facial recognition or detection could lead to incorrect fines.
- Lack of transparency about AI use creates public distrust.
Suggested Improvements
- Introduce stricter privacy rules for AI data handling.
- Increase human verification of flagged offences.
- Ensure public reporting on AI traffic enforcement is transparent and clear.
Government Response and Roadmap
The Transport Minister has acknowledged the concerns and committed to improvements:
- Implement new AI use guidelines by 2028.
- Maintain human oversight for all final penalty decisions.
- Balance road safety with privacy protection.
- Enhance transparency to improve public trust.
These steps aim to ensure AI systems prioritize safety over revenue generation while respecting individual privacy.
Public Opinion and Legal Considerations
- Experts emphasize that automated traffic systems must be accurate, fair, and regularly audited.
- Public acceptance depends on demonstrating that AI enforcement reduces accidents and does not disproportionately penalize drivers.
- Clear communication about how AI systems operate is essential to maintain trust.
FAQs
Q1: What violations do AI traffic cameras detect in Queensland?
A: They focus on mobile phone use while driving and seatbelt non-compliance.
Q2: Are fines issued automatically?
A: No. AI flags potential offences, but humans review the cases before fines are issued.
Q3: How many vehicles are monitored by these cameras?
A: In 2024, over 208 million vehicles were assessed by the AI system.
Q4: What privacy issues have been raised?
A: Concerns include data storage, security, and potential misuse of personal images.
Q5: When will Queensland update AI traffic rules?
A: The Transport Department plans new guidelines by 2028 to ensure ethical and safe AI use.
Conclusion
AI traffic cameras can help make roads safer by catching dangerous behaviours, but they must operate ethically and transparently. Queensland’s audit shows there is room for improvement in privacy protection and human oversight. For drivers, staying informed about AI enforcement and understanding their rights ensures compliance and peace of mind. With careful regulation, AI can save lives while protecting individual privacy.