Caught in 4K | Mobile Phone Detection Cameras in SE QLD
Noah Grayson | February 18, 2025
Fixed Camera Locations Across Brisbane and The Gold Coast
Have you ever been driving down the M1, picked up your phone to skip to the next track, and then had that mini heart attack - wondering if a sneaky camera just caught you?
Yeah, same.
Keep reading to learn how these cameras work, where they are, and what they can do to your licence.
Have You Ever Been Caught Off Guard?
Southeast Queensland has gone all-in on mobile phone detection cameras, and they’re watching whether you’re texting, scrolling, or just tapping your screen for a second.
Some say they’re a great way to keep roads safe; others feel like they’re just another revenue grab. Either way, getting caught can cost you big time. To help you avoid an unexpected fine—or just to see where these cameras are hiding—we’ve put together an interactive map of known locations. 
How Do These Cameras Work?
These cameras use artificial intelligence to detect mobile phone use and seatbelt offences. They capture images of vehicles and analyse them to spot potential violations. If a possible offence is detected, the image is reviewed by an authorised officer to confirm the violation. If confirmed, a fine is issued.
You Don’t Even Have to Be Holding Your Phone
A lot of people assume they’re only in trouble if they’re caught holding their phone while driving, but that’s not the case. Even having your phone resting on your lap, leg, or any part of your body is illegal. If it’s not secured in a phone mount or connected to hands-free, you could get fined.
Check out the facts below courtesy of StreetSmarts, a Queensland Government Initiative.
👉🏼 Download the factsheet
Where Are These Cameras Located?
Mobile phone detection cameras are installed throughout Queensland, including highways and major roads in Southeast Queensland. The government positions them based on crash data—where injuries or fatalities have occurred due to mobile phone use or not wearing a seatbelt.
The Fines & Penalties for Getting Caught
If you’re caught using a mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt while driving, the penalties are massive. Get caught twice within 12 months and the consequences are even bigger.
Queensland Double Demerit Points System
In Queensland, double demerit points apply all year round, not just during holiday periods.
If a driver repeats certain offences within 12 months, they will receive double demerit points for the second or subsequent offence. This applies at any time of the year.
Certain traffic offences committed anywhere in Australia can also be recorded on a Queensland licence holder's traffic history. Accumulating too many demerit points can lead to licence suspension.
| Offence | Points | Fine Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Phone Use | 4 | $1209 |
| Incorrect Seatbelt Use | 4 | $1209 |
| Mobile Phone Use (2nd Offence within 1 year) | 8 | $1209 |
| Incorrect Seatbelt Use (2nd Offence within 1 year) | 8 | $1209 |
How to Avoid a Fine (or Worse)
The best way to avoid a fine (or worse, an accident) is to keep your phone out of reach while driving. If you need to use it for navigation or music, make sure it’s secured in a proper phone mount or connected to hands-free. And if you’re really tempted to check messages, put your phone on Do Not Disturb before you start driving.
- Activate ‘Do not Disturb While Driving’
- Set your GPS, or playlist before leaving home
- Remind your passengers that you need to focus on the road.
- If you really need to make a call or send a message, pull over and park safely first.
- Consider putting your phone in the glovebox, boot or in a bag.
Stay One Step Ahead
Mobile phone detection cameras aren’t going anywhere, and if you’re driving in Southeast Queensland, it pays to know where they are. Whether you think they’re improving road safety or just another way to hit drivers with fines, the reality is that getting caught will cost you.
If you want to check where these cameras are before your next drive, add this page to your home screen.
And if you’re already on the road wondering if you just got flashed, well… you’ll find out soon enough..
Questions & Answers
How do mobile phone detection cameras identify drivers using their phones?
These cameras utilise artificial intelligence (AI) to capture images of vehicles and analyse them for signs of mobile phone use. If the AI detects a potential offence, the image is reviewed by an authorised officer to confirm the violation before issuing a fine.
Where are mobile phone detection cameras located in Southeast Queensland?
The cameras are installed throughout Queensland, including Southeast Queensland, in areas where road crash injuries or fatalities have occurred due to mobile phone use or not wearing a seatbelt. They operate 24/7 to monitor driver behaviour.
see map
What are the penalties for being caught using a mobile phone while driving?
As of July 2022, the fine for using a mobile phone while driving in Queensland is $1,209, along with four demerit points.
Is it illegal to have my phone resting on my lap while driving?
Yes, in Queensland, it's illegal to hold a mobile phone in your hand or have it resting on any part of your body, including your lap, while driving. The phone must be secured in a mount or used hands-free to comply with the law.
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