Camera accuracy and calibration
There are multiple types of photographic detection cameras operating in Queensland. These cameras are managed by either the Department of Transport and Main Roads or the Queensland Police Service.
Learn more about the types of cameras, how they are controlled, disputing an infringement notice and applying for documentation.
Red light cameras
Red light cameras operate in compliance with section 210B of the Traffic Regulation 1962.
Speed cameras
Photographic detection devices used in speed camera deployments are set up in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and guidelines.
Each camera must be calibrated regularly for accuracy. The equipment is tested and operated in compliance with section 210C of the Traffic Regulation 1962 and must be found to produce accurate results prior to deployment.
They must be tested annually by “An Approved Testing Entity” in accordance with section 120(2A) of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 and section 210F of the Traffic Regulation 1962.
Approved Testing Entities are accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities Australia, ensuring all photographic detection device calibration conducted conforms to the National Measurement Act 1960.
Several checks are completed to ensure the accuracy of speed cameras, depending on the type of speed camera. For example, for Transportable Road Safety Cameras:
- The speed of vehicles recorded from the trailer is verified by using a different speed detection device to ensure both devices are measuring the same speeds.
- The trailer will not commence enforcement until successfully verified.
- All offences detected are then verified using a secondary image speed verification method. This measures the distance a vehicle has travelled between two images and uses this to calculate the vehicle's speed. Only offences supported by the secondary image speed verification progress to adjudication by the Queensland Revenue Office before an infringement notice can be issued.
Dispute the speed on an infringement notice
If you believe the speed on an infringement notice is incorrect, you can dispute it in court.
Apply to obtain a camera's calibration certificate
To obtain a speed camera's calibration certificate or other documentation relevant to its deployment, you can submit an application to a Right to Information unit.
Administration fees apply for applications lodged. Documents relating to the camera manufacturers' intellectual property can't be released.
If your application is about Transportable Road Safety Cameras or the Roadways Behaviour Monitoring System, contact the Department of Transport and Main Roads Right to Information Team:
Right to Information, Privacy and Complaints Management
Department of Transport and Main Roads
GPO Box 1549
BRISBANE QLD 4001
Telephone: (07) 3066 7108
Email: contactrti@tmr.qld.gov.au
Website: https://tmr.qld.gov.au
All other speed and red light camera applications for documentation should be sent to the Queensland Police Service's Right to Information and Privacy Unit:
Right to Information and Privacy
Queensland Police Service
GPO Box 1440
BRISBANE QLD 4001
Telephone: (07) 3364 4666
Email: rti@police.qld.gov.au
Website: https://police.qld.gov.au