In Melbourne, recent legislative updates have paved the way for the regulated use of facial
recognition technology (FRT) in public safety applications, marking a significant step forward in
addressing domestic and sexual violence. The updated laws, enacted in 2024, establish strict
guidelines for deploying FRT while prioritizing the rights and safety of vulnerable populations.
The Legislative Shift
The Victorian Government amended its privacy and surveillance legislation to permit the use of
FRT under defined conditions. These changes were driven by extensive consultations with
advocacy groups, law enforcement agencies, and technology experts.
The new framework includes:
- Informed Consent: Organizations deploying FRT must provide clear and accessible
information about its use, ensuring individuals are aware of how their biometric data is
processed. - Purpose Limitation: FRT can only be used for specific purposes, such as identifying
individuals at risk or preventing imminent harm. - Data Security Measures: Strict protocols ensure that biometric data is securely stored and
accessed only by authorized personnel. - Oversight and Accountability: An independent body oversees the use of FRT, investigating
potential misuse and ensuring compliance with the law.
Positive Impacts for Domestic and Sexual Violence Survivors
The legislative changes enable targeted and ethical use of FRT to enhance the safety of domestic
and sexual violence survivors. Key benefits include:
Identifying High-Risk Individuals FRT systems are now being used in safe havens such as
shelters and public spaces to identify known perpetrators of violence. Survivors can feel
reassured that authorities will be alerted if their abuser enters a protected area.- Preventing Stalking and Harassment Law enforcement agencies in Melbourne have
integrated FRT into public surveillance systems in high-risk areas, such as public
transportation hubs. The technology can detect and track individuals with restraining orde
or histories of harassment, intervening before they reach potential victims. - Improving Access to Support Services Survivors can access public spaces and services with
increased confidence, knowing that FRT is actively monitoring for threats. This improved
sense of security encourages victims to seek help, attend counseling sessions, or use legal
resources. - Assisting Law Enforcement Investigations: FRT aids police investigations by identifying
offenders in recorded footage, expediting arrests, and ensuring justice for survivors. This is
especially critical in cases where victims may be hesitant to testify, as FRT provides
compelling evidence.
Early Success Stories
Since the law’s enactment, Melbourne has seen tangible results. For example, local law
enforcement credited FRT with identifying a domestic violence offender who violated a restraining
order, allowing authorities to intervene before any harm occurred. Advocacy groups have
reported a noticeable increase in survivors seeking support, citing greater confidence in the
system’s ability to protect them.
Balancing Safety and Privacy
While the legislative changes highlight the potential of FRT to enhance safety, they also ensure
robust safeguards against misuse. Transparency, public education campaigns, and ongoing
audits by independent bodies help maintain public trust and uphold individual rights.
Looking Forward
Melbourne’s approach to FRT sets a benchmark for how technology can be leveraged to support
domestic and sexual violence survivors while respecting privacy and ethical concerns. As the
technology evolves, continued collaboration between policymakers, advocates, and technologists
will be essential to maximize its positive impact.
For more details on the legislative changes and their benefits, visit the Victorian Government’s official website.
Sir Ray will be creating a Vlog interviewing global thought leaders in the domestic violence and sexual
violence prevention and rehabilitation sectors. If you would be interested in being interviewed, please
contact gavin@helpathand.org.nz
