governance · City of Vincent
Vincent residents to have say on tighter CCTV, AI and biometric rules
Residents can comment on proposed CCTV rules that would limit AI use, restrict biometric identification and require annual reporting on surveillance activity.
City of Vincent residents can comment on proposed limits for CCTV, artificial intelligence and biometric identification after councillors approved amended CCTV rules for consultation by a 7-0 vote.
The proposed replacement policy would require CCTV to be operated in a way that is “transparent and proportionate to the identified purpose”, with due regard for individual privacy and limits on unnecessary surveillance. The wording would replace the existing focus on minimising privacy intrusion while allowing the system to meet its objectives.
Artificial-intelligence technologies could be used in CCTV systems only to help detect incidents presenting an immediate risk to public safety or indicating potential criminal activity. AI could not make automated decisions affecting individuals, and its use would have to remain subject to meaningful human review and oversight.
The amendments would also restrict biometric identification to City facilities. It could be used to identify unauthorised individuals only where there was a demonstrated safety need.
A new section on transparency and accountability would require the City to publish information in its annual report about the number and location of CCTV cameras, new surveillance technologies introduced, and requests for footage from WA Police and other authorised agencies.
City administration supported the amendments, saying they would clarify CCTV governance and reinforce responsible information management. The changes were approved for community consultation and do not yet replace the existing policy. No consultation closing date was provided.
The consultation is relevant to residents, community organisations and suppliers involved in surveillance systems. It sets proposed requirements for how CCTV is operated, how emerging tools are reviewed and how surveillance activity is reported publicly.
The City will undertake consultation on the amended CCTV Policy before a further decision on the proposed replacement policy.
Reference minutes
City of Vincent Council Meeting (Ordinary and Special) held on 21 July 2026.
Key facts from the minutes
- The City of Vincent approved amended CCTV policy proposals for community consultation on 21 July 2026.
- The CCTV amendment was carried 7-0.
- The proposed policy requires CCTV to be transparent and proportionate to its identified purpose, with due regard for privacy.
- AI use would be limited to detecting immediate public-safety risks or potential criminal activity, with meaningful human review and oversight.
- Biometric identification would be limited to City facilities where there is a demonstrated safety need.
- Annual reporting would include camera numbers and locations, new surveillance technologies, and requests for footage from WA Police and other authorised agencies.
Why it matters
- The proposed policy would put clearer limits on public-space surveillance, require human oversight of specified AI use and add annual public reporting on CCTV activity.