Shedding light on red light speed cameras
Red light speed cameras have become a regular sight on NSW roads ever since their introduction more than 15 years ago.
While red light cameras have been around longer, the dual-function red light-and-speed camera technology was introduced by Transport for NSW in late 2009. According to the latest data, there are currently 247 intersections in NSW where red light speed cameras are operational.
What constitutes a red-light speed camera infringement?
Red light speed cameras take your picture if you are speeding at any time (i.e. whether the lights are red, amber or green) or if you run a red light. Red-light speed cameras operate automatically day and night.
If your vehicle crosses the white stop line – which is the first unbroken line if there is a pedestrian crossing area – after the lights have turned red, you have run a red light. Sensors under the road and just before the white stop line are timed with the lights to trigger the camera (or cameras). Usually, two photos are taken in quick succession.
As soon as the light turns red, the line becomes active. The red-light camera will take a photo when an active line is crossed. Revenue NSW reviews all images and will only take action when it is clear that you have crossed the white line on a red light.
The cameras record the date and time of the offence, the location, the direction you were travelling, the speed you were doing, the speed limit that applies and the lane you were travelling in. Basically, it’s a photo that can be used as evidence. Oh, and don’t forget that they can (or should be able to) clearly see your number plate.
Where are red-light speed cameras located in NSW?
According to Transport NSW, there are 247 red-light speed cameras installed across New South Wales, covering both Sydney and regional areas. Most are found in greater Sydney – 210 to be exact. You can find a full list of red-light speed camera locations here.
How are red light speed camera locations decided?
According to Transport for NSW, red light speed camera locations are decided first by identifying crash data and risk assessments, including intersections with a history of red-light running or high crash rates.
Intersections near schools, shopping areas, or busy urban roads are also high on the agenda.
A total five-year crash history is analysed by authorities, together with traffic volumes and vehicle approach speeds.
According to the Transport for NSW, sites are only shortlisted where evidence shows cameras would reduce the likelihood and severity of crashes.
Once a site is identified and tested, warning signs are installed and the camera is operated in testing mode (no fines issued) for a short period. After that, it becomes fully operational and fines apply.
Cameras are reviewed regularly, with annual data published by Transport for NSW. Cameras can be removed or relocated if they no longer deliver safety benefits, say authorities.
What triggers the camera?
The rear wheels of the vehicle need to be past the white stop line before the red light comes on to avoid triggering the camera. The camera is not triggered by vehicles crossing the stop line on yellow (amber) or green lights.
What if I entered the intersection on a yellow (amber) light?
No, you won't be fined for proceeding into an intersection on an amber light. Revenue NSW reviews all images and will only take enforcement action when it is clear that a vehicle has proceeded through a red light at an intersection.
What is the penalty in NSW for running a red light?
The standard penalty for running a red light or failing to stop at a red signal is, as of July 2025, a fine of $562 plus 3 demerit points for an unrestricted driver.
If you are speeding while running the red light, you will also attract the relevant speeding fine.
If the offence occurs in a school zone, the fine increases (to $704) and the demerit points may increase to 4.
The maximum fine if the matter is taken to court can be up to $2200 for that class of offence.
Can red light speed cameras detect illegal mobile phone use in NSW?
At the time of writing, no.
Mobile phone detection cameras are a separate network of cameras managed by Transport for NSW. These cameras use AI and high-resolution infrared imaging to detect whether a driver is holding or using a phone while driving.
The system can operate day or night, and offenders are fined $423 (or $562 in a school zone) and lose 5 demerit points.
How do I appeal a red light speed camera infringement?
If you receive a speed camera infringement, you can look up the details of your alleged misdemeanour on the Revenue NSW website – the information required will be on your infringement notice. Once there, you should be able to a copy of the actual photo taken that is being used as evidence for your penalty.
If you think the fine was issued unjustly, you can request a review. Three things could then happen:
- The penalty will stand, meaning that the offence was proven, and you will either have to pay the fine or elect to have the matter decided in court.
- You could receive a caution, whereby Revenue NSW believes that the penalty notice was issued correctly but based on a clean driving record of over 10 years or special evidence you have provided they will let you off this time (no fine or points) but the caution will be recorded on your driving history.
- It will be cancelled with no fines or points as the Revenue NSW believes the penalty notice was issued in error or does not sufficiently disclose the offence.
NRMA members who need more advice can have a chat to one of our motoring advice specialists on 13 11 22. If further legal action is required, always seek the advice of a solicitor or a professional legal service.
