Installation begins on new traffic cameras in Victoria, Australia

The state government of Victoria, Australia has announced that the new speed and red light cameras being installed on its roads will reduce deaths and injuries. Work has begun on the installation of digital speed and red light cameras at 53 intersections across Victoria - including six in rural areas - following the network upgrade and expansion announced last November.

The 22 existing wet film camera sites will be upgraded with digital technology, while the remaining 31 sites will have cameras installed for the first time. The move includes a 3,000-hour boost to mobile speed camera hours, of which 1,000 hours will be dedicated to tackle known hotspots, particularly in rural and regional Victoria. The locations for the new fixed camera sites are based on research from Monash University's Accident Research Centre, and local intelligence from police, councils and the community.

Roads Minister, Tim Pallas, says the campaign was designed to reduce the road toll and reduce serious injuries by 30% by 2017 and boost community safety. “The increased use of road safety cameras will provide continuous coverage at a large number of sites across the state. Victorians can be sure that people who put others at risk by speeding or running red lights will be caught.” Deputy commissioner for road policing, Ken Lay, says drivers who stick to the speed limit should be unconcerned about the additional cameras. “Those people who run red lights and exceed speed limits deserve to be caught and fined.”

 

13 July 2009