The public has been invited to have their say on a consultation paper developed by the Queensland Law Reform Commission (QLRC) covering the use of drones, CCTV and tracking devices among others.
The QLRC has made recommendations to strengthen privacy rules in these circumstances.
It is seeking opinions on a potential staged approach to implementing the civil surveillance reforms it has recommended, starting with criminal prohibitions on the use of surveillance devices and technologies in both civil and workplace environments.
While Queenslanders are currently protected by laws governing the use of listening devices in certain circumstances under the Invasion of Privacy Act 1971, the consultation paper discusses more comprehensive protections.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Shannon Fentiman said surveillance devices such as CCTV, tracking devices and drones were impacting the privacy of an increasing number of people.
“We want to make sure our laws keep pace with these advances in technology, without disrupting their intended safe use,” Ms Fentiman said.
“It is critical that we have legislation that reflects a modern Queensland and effectively protects against invasions of privacy carried out through the use of various types of surveillance devices,” she said.
She said the consultation paper would seek views on the approach to stronger privacy protections for Queenslanders, making sure the technology involved was prohibited from harmful use, such as harassment, or further hurting victims of domestic and family violence.
“I encourage everyone with an interest to provide feedback, because community input from a diverse range of stakeholders will ensure that any reforms are relevant and effective,” Ms Fentiman said.
Submissions close on 31 May and the consultation paper can be accessed on this PS News link.
