In early August 2025, the newly installed high-tech speed cameras on Tasmania’s Bridgewater Bridge began full enforcement of speeding violations, quickly generating substantial revenue. In the first week alone, $41,410 in fines were handed out, highlighting the effectiveness of the monitoring system and the persistence of speeding drivers. The Bridgewater Bridge, part of a $786 million infrastructure project, opened to the public in June 2025. However, despite a grace period where only warnings were issued, the first week of strict enforcement revealed the extent of speeding violations. This marked the end of a trial phase and the start of a more serious approach to curbing speeding on this vital route over the River Derwent, as reported by Yahoo News.
Speeding Incidents Fall Sharply as Enforcement Takes Hold
Since the introduction of the new speed cameras, authorities have noted a remarkable improvement in compliance. According to the Department of State Growth, there has been a drastic reduction in speeding incidents. “We are pleased to report an approximate 70 per cent reduction in speeding incidents detected on the new Bridgewater Bridge since the speed cameras went live compared to the testing period,” a department spokesperson shared with Yahoo. This sharp drop demonstrates that the enforcement has had the desired impact in curbing the number of offenders.
The reduction reflects the success of the technology in discouraging speeding, though it also highlights the initial scale of the issue before full enforcement began. The high-tech speed cameras have proven particularly effective in monitoring traffic and identifying offenders, catching drivers who exceed speed limits by even small margins. This increase in detection rates, thanks to the new cameras, has made a noticeable difference to the road’s overall safety.
Fines and Penalties: A Breakdown of the First Week’s Offenders
In the first week of enforcement, authorities issued fines to 246 motorists. The fines ranged from $102.50 to a staggering $1,178 depending on the severity of the violation. Most offenders were caught driving only a few kilometers over the speed limit, but there were several extreme cases. For example, the highest fine of $1,178 was handed out to two drivers who were traveling 45 km/h over the limit. This occurred despite the fact that the bridge’s speed limit is clearly posted and the presence of cameras is well-known.
Authorities emphasized that even minor speeding is dangerous. “Any level of speeding is illegal and unsafe. When lots of drivers speed by even a small amount, it makes the road-network less forgiving to mistakes and more dangerous for everyone,” the spokesperson told Yahoo. The message from the Department of State Growth is clear: speeding is unsafe, and drivers will be held accountable for their actions, no matter how small the violation.
High-Tech Cameras Show Promise for Road Safety
The speed cameras used on the Bridgewater Bridge are part of a broader strategy to enhance road safety across Tasmania. These cameras, identical to those recently installed on the Tasman Bridge, replaced outdated monitoring systems. The upgraded Sensys Gatso technology has allowed authorities to monitor traffic more effectively, catching offenders in real-time. This technological leap has already made a noticeable difference, as evidenced by the reduction in speeding incidents since the cameras went live.
For years, Tasmania’s outdated speed monitoring systems had struggled to keep up with increasing traffic and evolving driving patterns. The introduction of the modern, more efficient systems on both the Bridgewater and Tasman Bridges represents a significant step forward in improving road safety across the state. The new cameras are designed to provide accurate, real-time data that helps law enforcement target problem areas and deter reckless driving.
A Clear Warning to Speeders: You Will Be Caught
Authorities are sending an unequivocal message to drivers who continue to take chances with speeding: “To anyone thinking of speeding on the bridge, you will be caught.” This message has been reinforced by the first week of enforcement, which has proven that the authorities are committed to cracking down on offenders. With these high-tech cameras in place, drivers can no longer expect to go unnoticed when they exceed the speed limit.
For those considering testing the limits, the authorities are clear: speeding will be detected, and fines will follow. The $41,000 collected in the first week alone is a testament to the seriousness of this crackdown, and with enforcement now in full swing, there’s little room for complacency.
