Do you need a dash cam? A cheap-and-simple buyer's guide
Updated 24 July 2026 · 5 min read
If you've ever been rear-ended or blamed for a crash that wasn't your fault, you already know why dash cams have quietly become standard kit on Australian roads. They're cheap insurance: an unarguable video record of what actually happened. You don't need a $300 unit to get that — a good dash cam under $50 records clean 1080p, loops automatically, and saves the footage that matters.
What actually matters in a cheap dash cam
Four things: a clear 1080p (or better) picture so numberplates are readable, loop recording so it overwrites old footage automatically and never runs out of space, a G-sensor that locks the file when it detects a bump (so a crash clip can't be overwritten), and decent night performance. Everything else is a bonus.
You will need a microSD card — most cameras don't include one — so factor in a camera-grade card that can handle constant writing.
Front-only or front-and-cabin?
A front camera covers the crash that's most likely to be disputed — what happened on the road ahead. That's enough for most private drivers.
A dual front-and-cabin camera also records inside the car. It's the better pick if you drive rideshare or deliveries, carry passengers you might need a record of, or want the interior covered for parking incidents. If in doubt and the budget stretches, dual gives you nothing to regret later.
Getting the footage when you need it
The whole point is the clip you can hand to police or your insurer. Check the camera locks event files on impact (the G-sensor), and get into the habit of pulling the important clip off the card soon after anything happens, before the loop recycles it. A larger card buys you more history before that happens.
Frequently asked
Are dash cams legal in Australia?
Yes — dash cams are legal in every Australian state and territory, and footage is routinely accepted by police and insurers. Just mount it so it doesn't obstruct your view (behind the rear-view mirror is ideal).
Will insurers accept dash cam footage?
Generally yes. Clear footage showing what happened is commonly used to establish fault and can speed up a claim considerably. It's one of the cheapest ways to protect yourself against a false claim.
Do I need a memory card and how big?
Yes — most dash cams need a microSD card (often sold separately). A 64GB camera-grade card gives you plenty of loop history; make sure it's rated for continuous recording, as cheap cards fail under constant writing.
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Browse the full rangeThis guide is general safety information, not professional advice. For gas, electrical or structural work, use a licensed Australian tradesperson. Safety devices reduce risk but never remove it.