Victorian councils ban camera-equipped smart glasses in pools and gyms over privacy worries
Several Victorian councils are prohibiting smart glasses with built-in cameras in public pools, gyms and other community venues, citing resident privacy concerns.
A growing number of Victorian local authorities are introducing bans on smart glasses equipped with cameras in public facilities such as swimming pools, childcare centres, playgrounds and gyms, with sixteen councils already investigating or enforcing restrictions. Council leaders argue the measures are needed to reassure users that their privacy is respected, while disability advocates stress that blanket prohibitions could discriminate against people who depend on the technology for navigation and reading.
The Municipal Association of Victoria has called for consistent national guidelines, and both state and federal officials are examining regulatory options. Experts note that signage and bans may not deter deliberate harassment and that broader policies on data collection and recording are required. Accessibility exemptions are being discussed, with suggestions for dedicated change-rooms for legitimate users. The debate highlights tensions between privacy protection, technological innovation and inclusive access.
Why it matters
It shows how emerging wearable tech is prompting local privacy rules that could affect both safety and accessibility.
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