Australia considers world-first ban on smart glasses in government offices

Australia is considering a world-first ban on camera-equipped smart glasses across all federal government workplaces, citing growing privacy and security concerns. Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher has formally requested advice from the Australian Public Service Commission on whether to prohibit or restrict the devices in offices, service centers, and laboratories. The potential policy would apply to all agencies under the Commonwealth, though schools and hospitals run by the government could retain the ability to set their own rules. Gallagher stated that smart glasses raise legitimate concerns due to their ability to record and capture information, and that clear guidance is needed for public servants. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese framed the move as part of Australia's broader effort to set global standards for digital safety, following last year's ban on social media for children under 16. He emphasized the importance of putting the right protections in place as technology evolves. The initiative comes amid increasing international scrutiny of smart glasses, particularly Meta's Ray-Ban models, which have faced criticism for enabling covert recording.