Seatbelt cameras and exemptions
Information about seatbelt detection cameras, fines and exemptions in your state and territory.
What you need to know
Seatbelts are an important part of keeping drivers and passengers safe when travelling in motor vehicles.
Seatbelt detection cameras operating across most states and the ACT can issue automatic fines to drivers if a passenger is unbelted or wearing a seatbelt incorrectly. The cameras take photos of the driver and front seat passenger. Police can also issue on the spot fines.
Medical exemptions allow these penalties to be reviewed and in some cases, cancelled.
Each state and territory has road rules that allow a person to be exempt from wearing a seatbelt or to use an alternative restraint, due to their disability or medical condition. They also have different processes for enforcing and reviewing fines.
The information below outlines the steps to obtain an exemption and request a fine review for each state and territory.
Note: Fine amounts and camera status based on information available at August 2026.
Recommended steps to take before travel
Shiv, can you pls add icons or checklist ticks?
Assessment: If a person has difficulty wearing a seatbelt correctly, MACA recommends an assessment by a suitably trained professional, such as an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or medical practitioner.
Find a MACA-trained allied health professional.
Certificate: Ask a medical practitioner for a medical certificate stating the exemption, any conditions and the dates it applies. Information for medical practitioners about this process is provided below
Documentation: Keep the medical certificate and any relevant transport advice with the person whenever they travel.
Register: In some states, you can register the exemption before travelling to avoid fines. Queensland and New South Wales have specific registration options linked to a vehicle's registration.
Check the rules: Check the requirements in your state or territory and before travelling interstate. Do not assume your documents will be accepted in another state or territory.
Seatbelt fines and camera enforcement by location
The following summarises the penalties for drivers who are not wearing a seatbelt correctly. Different penalties may apply to passengers, company-registered vehicles and offences committed during double demerit periods.
Victoria
Fine: $418
Demerit points: 3
Seatbelt cameras: Yes
Valid exemption: Medical certificate
Fine review: Fines Victoria
South Australia
Fine: $463
Demerit points: 3
Seatbelt cameras: No
Valid exemption: Medical certificate
Fine review: South Australia police
Tasmania
Fine: $426
Demerit points: 3
Seatbelt cameras: Yes
Valid exemption: Medical certificate
Fine review: Service Tasmania
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Fine: $641
Demerit points: 3
Seatbelt cameras: Yes
Valid exemption: Medical certificate
Fine review: Access Canberra
Western Australia
Fine: $550
Demerit points: 4
Seatbelt cameras: Yes
Valid exemption: Medical certificate
Fine review: WA Police Force
Northern Territory
Fine: $500
Demerit points: 3
Seatbelt cameras: No
Valid exemption: Medical certificate
Fine review: NT Government
Queensland
Fine: $1,295
Demerit points: 4
Seatbelt cameras: Yes
Valid exemption: Medical certificate OR option available to register a seatbelt exemption certificate. Submit the registration form before travel.
Fine review: Queensland Government
New South Wales
Fine: $434
Demerit points: 3
Seatbelt cameras: Yes
Valid exemption: Medical certificate. Submit the registration form for each vehicle.
Fine review: NSW Government
Understanding state and territory requirements
To help health professionals, families and others understand the law, we have summarised the penalties, use of seatbelt cameras, exemption processes and review options in each state and territory.
