Over 2,000 traffic fines issued by AI cameras in West Australia have been canceled following appeals, representing more than 60% of all challenges. This high rate of canceled fines raises new concerns about the accuracy and fairness of automated surveillance systems.
Between 8/10/2025 and 17/4, authorities issued nearly 54,000 violation notices for "not wearing a seatbelt" via the AI camera system. Approximately 3,400 individuals requested a review of their fines.
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Elli Figomnari successfully appealed three of four seatbelt fines. Photo: ABC News |
Elli Figomnari successfully appealed three of four seatbelt fines. Photo: ABC News
Elli Figomnari, a disability support worker, exemplifies the challenges faced by drivers. She risked losing her driver's license after an AI camera system recorded a neurologically disordered patient in her vehicle without a properly fastened seatbelt. After a lengthy appeal process, three of her four penalties, each carrying a 16-point deduction, were canceled. Figomnari reported the process was time-consuming, with waiting periods extending over two months, significantly longer than the advertised six weeks.
A significant number of incorrect fines involve passengers, particularly children, routing seatbelts under their armpits or behind their backs instead of over their shoulders. Under current regulations, drivers are fined 550 AUD and incur demerit points even for momentary adjustments of a seatbelt by a passenger. Many drivers express frustration, stating they cannot simultaneously drive and monitor or adjust passenger seating positions.
Legal experts note that the AI camera system appears to shift the burden of proving innocence onto citizens. Instead of authorities providing compelling evidence, drivers are required to gather their own documentation to file an appeal, a process that is often time-consuming. Earlier this year, the system generated fines totaling over one million AUD per week, prompting the Road Safety Commission to initiate a review of its operations.
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A case where a "not wearing a seatbelt while driving" fine was issued, but the seatbelt was actually tucked under the armpit. Photo: ABC News |
A case where a "not wearing a seatbelt while driving" fine was issued, but the seatbelt was actually tucked under the armpit. Photo: ABC News
Given these technological shortcomings, legal experts encourage road users to submit requests for review if they find images captured by AI cameras to be unreasonable. A representative from West Australia's Department of Transport and Infrastructure stated that departmental staff meticulously review images before issuing fines. The spokesperson added that this review process is repeated if citizens request a re-evaluation, with each case resolved based on its specific circumstances.
Despite the high number of canceled fines, local officials continue to defend the AI camera system. They present data suggesting the error rate on the total number of penalties is "very small," asserting that "less than 4% of violations are canceled." A representative from the authorities commented, "This means most people accept the fine and realize they made a mistake."
Lam Giang (According to PerthNow, The West Australian)
