Australia’s eSafety commissioner has issued guidance to smart glasses manufacturers regarding safety and privacy features, as the technology faces increased scrutiny from government and advocacy groups. While acknowledging accessibility benefits for people with vision impairments, the regulator warned that companies are inadequately addressing risks associated with covert recording capabilities.
The eSafety commission recommended that smart glasses include clear visual indicators when recording that cannot be disabled or obscured, automatic face blurring for people who have not consented, and the inability to identify members of the public. The regulator emphasized that harms from covert recording are already occurring, including incidents of women being filmed without consent, and that “pickup artist” content filmed on the devices often generates misogynistic commentary that may normalize unwanted surveillance in public spaces.
The federal government is moving to address the issue through privacy law reforms. The attorney-general plans to release an exposure draft regarding smart glasses regulation, though sources indicate this will not include an outright ban. The Australian privacy commissioner was separately tasked with assessing privacy implications of the technology. However, current regulators lack enforcement powers to mandate design changes or restrict the devices.
Legislative action is being pursued through multiple channels. The Greens, supported by several cross-benchers, plan to introduce a private member’s bill proposing a 12-month temporary ban pending privacy law updates. Some institutions including schools and Brisbane city council have begun implementing their own restrictions. Experts argue that device bans at individual locations are insufficient and that obligations should rest with manufacturers and retailers, while emphasizing that policy responses should focus on underlying harms such as non-consensual recording and harassment rather than the technology itself.
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