Connected vehicles use digital technologies to share information with the world around them. Many modern vehicles include some form of connection to the internet, most commonly through an inbuilt SIM card or paired mobile phone. This connectivity supports things like software updates, maintenance, driver-assistance features, mapping and infotainment.
Connected vehicles can collect and share data from sensors, cameras, microphones and other systems inside and outside the vehicle. They may send or receive information such as location, speed and braking events, and they can receive real‑time messages about hazards, traffic signals and road conditions. This extra information helps drivers make better decisions and supports safer, smoother journeys.
As connected vehicles and their enabling technologies develop, they will play a growing role in how we manage the transport system and support related emerging transport technologies, such as automated vehicles and co-operative intelligent transport systems.
How connected vehicles communicate
Connected vehicles use several wireless technologies to send and receive information, including:
- Cellular: long‑range mobile networks such as 4G and 5G
- Wi-Fi: short‑range data sharing
- Bluetooth: very short‑range connection between the car and personal devices
- Satellite: coverage in areas with limited terrestrial mobile reception
The different ways connected vehicles use these technologies to communicate are sometimes grouped under the term Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X). V2X means a vehicle can exchange information with almost anything around it, including other cars, traffic lights, networks, personal devices and even pedestrians.
Benefits of connected vehicles
Connected vehicle technologies provide opportunities for Australia’s transport system to operate more safely and efficiently. Potential benefits include:
- safer roads through earlier warnings and better driver awareness
- more reliable journeys with improved, real‑time traffic information
- stronger incident response by sharing timely data with road managers
- environmental gains from smoother traffic and less congestion
- support for future automation because many automated functions rely on dependable connectivity and data.
Cyber security
Connected vehicles carry cyber security risks that vary with the level of connectivity and the apps and systems they connect to. These risks include personal privacy breaches and remote hacking.
The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) and Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) provide practical advice on these risks for individuals and families through the Introduction to Connected Vehicles webpage and factsheet.
Visit the ASD and ACSC website for further information or to download the factsheet at http://www.cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself/securing-your-devices/how-secure-your-devices/introduction-to-connected-vehicles.
Australia’s approach to connected vehicles
Australia is preparing for connected vehicle technologies through a nationally consistent approach. The National Road Transport Technology Strategy and its 2024-27 National Connected and Automated Vehicle (CAV) Action Plan set the direction for governments to work together on policy, standards and infrastructure readiness to ensure these technologies operate safely, reliably, and consistently across the country. This work supports Australia’s broader shift toward a smarter, more integrated transport system.
Australian governments are also supporting trials and research to better understand the implications of connected vehicles. This complements related efforts on automated vehicles and co-operative intelligent transport systems, so Australia’s road network can adapt to emerging technologies in a safe and coordinated way.
Privacy
The Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles govern how organisations handle personal information. Organisations involved in collecting, using, storing or disclosing personal information through connected vehicle products and services should ensure they meet their obligations under the Act and the Australian Privacy Principles. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) is Australia's independent privacy regulator and provides guidance on privacy obligations and data breach requirements.
Telecommunications legislation and connected vehicles
The department has consulted on whether telecommunications carriage service provider obligations should apply to the manufacturers and distributors of connected vehicles and after-market units that connect vehicles to the internet.
Further information on this consultation can be found at https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/telecommunications-legislation-and-connected-vehicles