NSW RTA Considering Lower Speeding Leeway As New Mobile Cameras Draw Nearer

As the debut of New South Wales' new mobile speed cameras next week draws nearer, the state's Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) is reportedly proposing a reduced speeding leeway of just 4km/h over the posted limit.

While the proposal has yet to be confirmed by the RTA, senior police are understood to have confirmed to The Sun-Herald that the plans are under consideration.

If enacted, the new laws would bring NSW in line with similar laws in Victoria, which allows a speeding tolerance of only 3km/h over the limit. Queensland is also understood to be considering similar laws as it moves to adopt digital cameras.

There is debate on whether such a low tolerance level can be managed by motorists, with factors such as new tyres, different-sized wheels and proper calibration all capable of leading to potentially inaccurate speedometer readings.

Six new mobile cameras will go into operation in New South Wales next week, each marked and signposted. The RTA will also maintain a public list on its website of locations where the mobile cameras are in operation, updated every three months.

Offending motorists will receive warnings in the mail in place of penalties for the first month of operation.

The return of mobile speed cameras to NSW roads comes at a cost of $170 million and will include repairs and upgrades to blackspot areas around the state.