Legislation to officially begin the process of bringing Mobile Phone Detection Cameras (MPDCs) to South Australian roads has passed parliament.

The Statutes Amendment (Use of Devices in Vehicles) Bill 2022 will amend the Road Traffic Act 1961 to include an enabling provision that will allow for the use of MPDCs.

Police Minister Joe Szakacs said driver distraction killed people on the roads.

“It’s one of the leading causes of fatalities and serious injury crashes on South Australian roads,” he said.

“The Malinauskas Government is committed to reducing dangerous and high-risk driving behaviours, such as distraction, on South Australian roads.”

Minister Szakacs said between 2017-2021 (inclusive), 247 lives were lost and 1330 serious injuries were sustained with inattention listed as a contributing factor.

“This equates to 51% of all lives lost and 34% of serious injuries,” he said.

“Data provided by South Australia Police shows that over the past four years 30,354 expiation notices were issued for mobile phone offences, equating to around 7600 offences per year.

“The introduction of mobile phone detection cameras in South Australia aims to detect and deter distracted drivers who illegally use a mobile phone while driving.

“Mobile phone detection cameras already operate in New South Wales and Queensland and are also being trialled for use in Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory.

“The cameras being used interstate have proven effective in identifying drivers illegally using a mobile phone while driving.

“MPDC’s are life-saving technology.

“The cameras are expected to be operational from late 2023, with a three-month grace and education period.”

Minister Szakacs said fines raised from the illegal use of a mobile phone will be invested in the Community Road Safety Fund, ensuring safer roads for the community.