Federal government considers smart glasses workplace ban

• The Australian federal government is considering a ban on camera-equipped smart glasses across Commonwealth workplaces and public buildings.
• The potential policy shift follows growing privacy and security concerns over subtle recording capabilities in public service environments.
• Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher requested official advice to position the federal public service as a model employer.

The Australian federal government is assessing a potential ban on camera-equipped smart glasses across Commonwealth workplaces, Centrelink service centres, and CSIRO laboratories.

Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher initiated the review following reports that wearable cameras create security risks by recording information without clear visual cues.

"There are legitimate privacy and security concerns raised by this technology," said Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher.

The proposed restrictions would apply to departmental facilities, while state governments remain responsible for setting separate guidelines for locations like schools and hospitals.

Gallagher stated that she asked for public service advice because she wants the Commonwealth to act as a model employer for Australian workplaces.

Smart glasses are used by individuals with visual impairments as assistive tools, but the devices also draw criticism over secret recording capabilities.

Several Australian city councils have already restricted the technology inside municipal facilities, including public pools, local playgrounds, and community gyms.