New figures have revealed seatbelt fines surged by 2,357 per cent in just one year, with the NSW Liberals and Nationals calling for an immediate public education campaign.
A staggering 132,755 seatbelt fines were issued in 2024–25 following the introduction of AI-powered detection cameras. Concerningly, more than one in ten fines were issued for failing to wear a seatbelt at all.
Despite the huge increase in fines, the latest Transport for NSW figures show:
- 12,157 people were seriously injured during 2025, an increase of 598, or 5.2 per cent, from 11,559 in 2024.
- 244 lives have been lost on NSW roads in 2026, compared with 240 at the same time last year.
Shadow Minister for Roads Mark Coure said enforcement must be supported by clear and practical education.
“These figures show that current deterrence measures are not enough to improve road safety,” Mr Coure said.
“Cameras can detect an offence and issue a fine, but the evidence is showing it is not addressing the cause and changing behaviour.”
“The Minns Labor Government must back current deterrent measures with a comprehensive education campaign, which the NRMA is also calling for – with targeted information for passengers, parents, pregnant women and culturally diverse communities.”
“Two-thirds of the offences reportedly involved passengers, demonstrating that the Government’s message is simply not reaching the broader community.”
“With the NSW road toll remaining unacceptably high, fines alone are not a road safety strategy. Education and enforcement must work together.”