New technology could nab Illawarra motorists using their mobile phones while driving.
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Transport and Roads Minister Andrew Constance said the government would roll out its mobile phone detection camera program by the end of the year.
The program will include fixed cameras and relocatable trailer-mounted versions of the technology, which will be moved around the state.
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It comes after a six-month pilot where 8.5 million vehicles were checked and more than 100,000 drivers were caught using their phones.
"Unfortunately some people haven't received the message and think they can continue to put the safety of themselves, their passengers and the community at risk without consequence," Mr Constance said.
"The program will operate in warning letter mode for the first three months to reinforce the 'get your hand off it' message.
"If you offend after that, you'll cop a $344 fine and five demerit points."
Police said more than 16,500 people had been caught using a mobile phone while driving so far this year.
Glen Humphries
I'm an award-winning senior journalist with the Illawarra Mercury and have well over two decades' worth of experience in newspapers. I cover the three local councils in the Illawarra for the Mercury, state and federal politics, as well as writing for the TV guide. If I'm not writing, I'm reading.
I'm an award-winning senior journalist with the Illawarra Mercury and have well over two decades' worth of experience in newspapers. I cover the three local councils in the Illawarra for the Mercury, state and federal politics, as well as writing for the TV guide. If I'm not writing, I'm reading.
