Highlands motorists beware - if you use your devices while driving, a new mobile phone detection camera could catch you.
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The world-first program is due to be rolled out in NSW by the end of the year.
Minister for Roads Andrew Constance said the cameras would crack down on drivers illegally using their mobile 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.
While specific camera locations haven't been released, Southern Highlands Police officer-in-charge Inspector John Klepczarek said he would welcome the new technology.
"Any additional devices or initiatives that address this issue will always be welcome," Inspector Klepczarek said.
"If the introduction such a camera reduces number of people using their phones on the road, that's only a good thing. It's becoming to the point where we'll see more incidents occur when drivers aren't fully concentrating on the road."
Inspector Klepczarek said mobile phone use was not a problem limited to inexperienced drivers, with "even our older members" of the community caught by police.
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"What is clear is distraction devices such as mobile phones are becoming a great concern for police, with the amount of people texting or even watching clips while driving," he said.
"This is just a recipe for disaster. Unfortunately in the Highlands we've seen quite serious crashes occur when these devices have been used.
"I consider it to be quite a big issue and the amount of tickets have been issued to motorists using mobile phones is on the increase."
The program will operate in warning letter mode for the first three months.
If a motorist offends after that, they will incur a $344 fine and five demerit points.
The program will start later this year and progressively expand to perform 135 million vehicle checks annually by 2023.
