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Brisbane bans non-consensual smart-glasses filming at pools

8/27/2026

25 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Brisbane City Council banned non-consensual use of smart glasses at its public pools.
The ban also applies to phones, GoPros and any camera-equipped devices.
Lifeguards can eject anyone filming swimmers without permission.
The policy will be enforced at all 21 council pools within weeks.
Attorney-General Michelle Rowland asked the Privacy Commissioner to review smart-glasses uptake.

History

Historical Context

The EU adopted the General Data Protection Regulation on 14 April 2016, which became enforceable on 25 May 2018 and set strict consent standards for public recording. Its “Brussels effect” has inspired similar rules worldwide, including Australia’s 2024 Brisbane City Council ban on smart-glasses at pools, backed by Attorney-General Michelle Rowland. Enforcement has already produced fines such as a €50 million penalty on Google in 2019.

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Story summary

Brisbane City Council banned non-consensual use of smart glasses at its public pools.
The ban also applies to phones, GoPros and any camera-equipped devices.
Lifeguards can eject anyone filming swimmers without permission.
The policy will be enforced at all 21 council pools within weeks.
Attorney-General Michelle Rowland asked the Privacy Commissioner to review smart-glasses uptake.

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