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.

The accuracy of an infringement for disobeying a red traffic signal is clearly visible on the infringement notice as two pictures are taken of an offence with time stamps. One image shows the vehicle behind the stop line, facing a red traffic signal and the second shows the vehicle over the stop line, facing the red traffic signal.

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 which can vary, depending on the type of speed camera. All detections  are also reviewed by a specially trained adjudicator, prior to an infringement being 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 calibration certificate for a Transportable Road Safety Camera, Roadways Behaviour Monitoring System, fixed speed or red light camera or a Road Safety Camera Trailer, you can submit an enquiry to the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

For other documents about road safety cameras, you can submit an application online to the Department of Transport and Main Roads Right to Information unit.

Administration fees apply for applications lodged. Some documents cannot be released, such as:

  • Documents relating to intellectual property
  • Documents not held by the department
  • Information about other individual motorists’ offences.

All other applications for calibration certificates and documents about mobile speed cameras 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