They look like regular cars parked on the side of the road.
But in fact they’re part of dozens of mobile speed cameras, catching unknowing drivers more often than ever before.
According to 9News, the NSW Government’s overhaul of the speed camera program, which includes removing warning signs, stripping back vehicle markings, and increasing enforcement time on our roads, is having a massive impact.
The amount of fines handed out per month has more than tripled since the changes were put in place, with revenue surging to a record high of almost $2.5 million in December.
In comparison, the figure was under $400,000 for the same month in the previous year.
The State Government claims the changes to mobile speed cameras will ensure safety on our roads, but critics believe keeping the camera visible is a more effective way to change driver behaviour.
NRMA’s Peter Khoury says removing warning signs eliminates the opportunity to educate drivers about speeding in real time.
“Is it a good policy? Well no, it’s not. Will it save lives? Probably not,” he said.
“We’ve lost all of that education, we still have the enforcement but all too often people don’t find out they’ve done the wrong thing until two to three weeks later [when they receive a fine in the mail].”
NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole announced changes to the mobile speed camera program on public safety grounds on November 19 last year.
This article originally appeared on Over60.