A recent decision by the Administrative Review Tribunal has affirmed the importance of responsible use of facial recognition technology (FRT), cementing key principles and protections within Australian privacy law.
Under the Australian Privacy Principles (APP’s), organisations and agencies covered by the Privacy Act (1988) must comply with the stipulated regulations in certain areas of conduct, including dealings with or collection of unsolicited personal information and the security of personal information. These principles are outlined by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) and emphasise open and transparent management of information.
Between November 2018 and November 2021, Bunnings Australia Limited trialed facial recognition CCTV throughout NSW and Victoria in order to identify repeat offenders of theft or violence against staff. The corporation has maintained that its intent was to protect the store, employees, and general public from “serious criminal
