Queenslanders have lost more than $100 million dollars to new mobile phones and seatbelt cameras in just 8 months.
The cameras are positioned throughout the state’s roads and use software that allows them to capture footage through windshields.
The Qld Government launched the program in November 2021, with the stated goal of “reducing road trauma”, according to Transport and Mains Roads’ website.
Historically, cameras were used to improve driving by serving as a visual reminder and deterring bad driver behavior.
Strangely, the new phone and seatbelt cameras are hidden, making them useless at preventing dangerous driving.
Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance President Brian Marlow said it was no coincidence that governments were doubling down to raise revenue at this time.
“It’s no coincidence that, at a time where our budget balance sheets are falling to pieces, state governments are finding new ways to shake down everyday Aussies out of hundreds of millions of dollars,” Mr Marlow said.
“They don’t care about driver safety, they care about driver revenue.”
Since 2011, the Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance has advocated for everyday Australians against everything from irresponsible to downright corrupt government moves.
The ATA is a grassroots advocacy group fighting for smaller government, more transparency and less bureaucracy.