While there’s been plenty of chatter about mandatory dash cams for SUVs in Australia, the reality is a bit different from what some headlines might suggest. Let’s set the record straight on what’s actually happening with vehicle safety requirements Down Under.
The Current State of Play
There are currently no mandatory dash cam requirements specifically for SUVs or any other vehicle type in Australia. However, reversing cameras and rear motion sensors will become mandatory on all new-generation motor vehicles entering the Australian market from November 1, 2025. This includes SUVs, utes, passenger cars, and commercial vehicles.
The confusion often stems from mixing up dash cams (forward-facing cameras that record while driving) with reversing cameras (rear-facing cameras that activate when backing up). They’re completely different beasts with different purposes.
What’s Actually Changing in 2025
Under the new Australian Design Rule 108/00 – Reversing Technologies, all new vehicles that go on sale from November 1, 2025 must receive a reversing camera and parking sensors. This rule will then expand to include all vehicles from November 2027.
The government introduced this change to tackle a serious safety issue. Every week a child is injured in a driveway runover incident, with children under five most at risk. These new regulations aim to reduce both fatal and non-fatal driveway incidents.
Current Dash Cam Laws Across Australia
While dash cams aren’t mandatory, they’re completely legal to use across all Australian states and territories, provided you follow some basic rules:
| State/Territory | Key Requirements |
|---|---|
| NSW | Must not obstruct driver’s view; secure mounting required |
| Victoria | Cannot obstruct view; follows Rule 266 of Victorian Road Safety Rules |
| Queensland | No obstruction of driver’s vision; proper installation essential |
| SA, WA, Tasmania, NT, ACT | Must be securely mounted without blocking driver’s view |
In all states, dash cams must not obstruct the driver’s view and there should be no issue with the driver’s ability to see the road and other vehicles.
Why SUV Owners Are Embracing Dash Cams
Even without a legal requirement, one-fifth or 21% of all Aussie drivers were recording their car trips in 2019, with numbers continuing to climb. SUV drivers particularly benefit from dash cams because:
- Better evidence in accidents: SUVs’ height can create blind spots, making video evidence crucial
- Insurance protection: Many insurers now accept dash cam footage to fast-track claims
- Protection from fraud: “Crash for cash” scams often target larger vehicles like SUVs
- Parking mode security: SUVs are attractive theft targets, and dash cams with parking mode provide 24/7 protection
Installation Best Practices for Your SUV
Proper placement is crucial for both effectiveness and legal compliance. Dash cams can be mounted on the windshield, usually just behind the rear-view mirror so that you still have a clear view of the road and traffic around you.
For SUVs specifically:
- Mount high behind the rearview mirror on the passenger side
- Ensure all cables are tucked away and don’t obstruct airbag deployment
- Test the view from your normal driving position
- Consider professional installation to hide wiring neatly
The Privacy Side of Things
Here’s something many Aussie drivers don’t realise: audio recording is only allowed if all parties involved provide their consent. This means if you’re recording audio in your SUV with passengers, you need their permission, or the audio could be inadmissible as evidence.
Could Mandatory Dash Cams Be Next?
There’s definitely momentum building. Dash cam manufacturer Navman says there are high-ranking police who think it should be law, and some insurance companies are pushing for it too. Japan already mandates in-car cameras for insurance eligibility, so Australia could follow suit eventually.
However, privacy concerns and the cost implications for consumers mean any mandatory dash cam legislation would face significant debate before becoming reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I legally need a dash cam in my SUV in 2025? A: No, dash cams are not mandatory for any vehicle type in Australia. However, reversing cameras will be required for new vehicles from November 2025.
Q: Can I use my SUV’s dash cam footage as evidence if I’m in an accident? A: Yes, dash cam footage is admissible in court and can play a pivotal role in resolving disputes and determining liability in traffic incidents. Just ensure the footage is clear, unedited, and legally obtained.
Q: Where’s the best spot to mount a dash cam in my SUV? A: Place the camera high behind the mirror on the passenger side. Perform a seated eye test to ensure no blind spots, and make sure it doesn’t obstruct your view or interfere with safety systems.
Q: Can I record audio in my SUV with a dash cam? A: You can, but you need consent from all passengers. In Victoria, for instance, it is illegal to record a private conversation without the consent of all parties involved. This applies to most other states as well.
Q: What happens if my dash cam blocks my view while driving? A: You could cop a fine. Drivers who mount suction cups in the centre of the windshield invite fines and obstruct airbag deployment. Proper placement keeps you legal and safe.
