Introduction
Receiving
a red-light camera offence notice in NSW can lead to fines, demerit
points, and even licence suspension, impacting your driving record and
finances. At Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers,
our traffic lawyers in Sydney, NSW, specialise in defending clients
against red light camera charges, including appealing fines and
suspensions. This comprehensive guide explains red light camera offences in
NSW, the penalties involved, how to appeal, and potential defences. As a
leading criminal law firm in Sydney, we’re here to help you challenge
unfair penalties and protect your driving privileges.
What
is a Red-Light Camera Offence in NSW?
Under Rule
56 of the Road Rules 2014 (NSW), a red light
camera offence occurs when a driver fails to stop at a red traffic
light or arrow, captured by automated cameras at intersections. These cameras,
operated by Transport for NSW, photograph vehicles that cross the stop
line after the light turns red, recording the date, time, and vehicle details.
Common scenarios include:
• Entering an intersection on a red light.
• Failing to stop fully at a red arrow when turning.
• Crossing the stop line slightly after the light changes.
The
prosecution must prove that your vehicle crossed the stop line while the light
was red. Red light camera offences are strict
liability offences, meaning intent is irrelevant—only the act of crossing
matters.
PENALTIES
FOR RED LIGHT CAMERA OFFENCES
Penalties
for red light camera offences are designed to enforce compliance
and enhance road safety. As of 1 July 2024:
• Standard Penalty:
•
Fine: $529 ($662 in a school zone).
•
Demerit points: 3 (6 in a school zone, 6 during double demerit
periods).
•
No automatic licence suspension for a single offence.
• Learner/Provisional Licence Holders:
•
Minimum 4 demerit points, with a lower threshold for suspension (4 for
learners/P1, 7 for P2).
•
Accumulating points quickly leads to a 3-month suspension.
• Additional Consequences:
•
Demerit point suspension: 13 points within 3 years (full licence)
triggers a 3–6-month suspension.
•
Insurance increases: Convictions raise premiums.
•
Employment risks: Professional drivers may face job consequences.
Our traffic
lawyers in Sydney can help you avoid these penalties through appeals
or court defences, potentially securing a Section 10 dismissal to
eliminate fines and points.
Appealing
a Red-Light Camera Offence
If you
receive a red-light camera fine, you have several options to challenge
it:
1. Request a Review with Revenue NSW:
•
Lodge a review within 28 days of receiving the notice, citing
errors (e.g., incorrect vehicle details) or extenuating circumstances (e.g.,
medical emergency).
•
Outcomes include cancellation, a caution, or upholding the fine.
2. Elect to Go to Court:
•
Contest the fine in the Local Court within 28 days, arguing
defences or seeking leniency.
•
Our driver licence appeal lawyers in Sydney can represent you,
presenting evidence like witness statements or camera malfunctions.
3. Appeal a Licence Suspension:
•
If demerit points trigger a suspension, appeal to the Local Court under
Section 267 of the Road Transport Act 2013.
•
Grounds include errors, hardship, or good driving history.
Defences
to Red Light Camera Offences
When
contesting a red light camera offence, possible
defences include:
• Camera Malfunction.
• Mistaken Identity
• Emergency
• Unclear Signage
• Procedural Errors
Our criminal
defence lawyers in Sydney will assess the camera images, police
procedures, and evidence prior to your hearing date and obtain your
instructions.
Why
Choose Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers?
A red light camera offence can escalate
into significant penalties. At Nicopoulos
Sabbagh Lawyers, we offer:
• Expertise: Extensive experience in traffic law and
criminal law.
• Results: Success in securing Section 10
dismissals and appeal wins.
• Support: 24/7 availability for urgent cases.
• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with Sydney courts like
Downing Centre and Parramatta.
Contact
Us
Don’t
let a red-light camera offence affect your driving record. Contact Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers at info@nslaw.net.au,
call 02 9793 7016, or visit www.nslaw.net.au for a free
consultation. Let our Sydney criminal law firm help you appeal
and win.
Why
Choose Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers YOUR Leading Sydney
Criminal Defence & Traffic Lawyers to represent you in your Traffic Law
Matter?
Nicopoulos
Sabbagh Lawyers are the leading Law firm in Traffic Law matters as our office
appears at ALL Courts in NSW on a regular basis in ALL Traffic Law
matters. No matter is too complex for Nicopoulos Sabbagh lawyers, your Traffic Sydney Lawyers, so
be sure to book your first Free Consultation today!
GOING
TO COURT?
It
is very important that you speak with a lawyer so that you can get the
appropriate legal advice which you require prior to going to court.
Our team
of experienced solicitors are there for you and can help you answer all your
questions, so be sure to contact your
Sydney Lawyers, Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers.
*This article correctly reflects the Laws of NSW as at 25th April 2025.
*Please note that
this page or any other pages on our website (including any other social media
platforms for Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers) are not to
be considered as a substitute for legal advice or even other professional
advice. It should also be noted that accessing of this information from this
website does not create a
client-lawyer relationship.