The King Island Council is calling for community feedback on the proposed Tasmanian Regional Towns Community Safety CCTV Project.
The project involves the installation of CCTVin three King Island public space locations.
The Community Safety CCTV Project was initiatedby the Tasmanian Government in 2021 to improve community safety within Tasmanianregional towns.
This state government-funded initiative has already seen installation commencing or beingcompleted in many councils throughout Tasmania.
“The introduction of CCTV in public spaceson King Island is a proactive measure designed to enhance community safety and security.
“This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a safer environment for all residents and visitors, reduce crime, and provide valuable support to law enforcement and emergency services,” the Council advises in the CCTV project guidelines.
The guidelines are part of the community consultative process.
King Island Council has been working closely with the Local Government Association Tasmania(LGAT) grant coordinator and Tasmanian Police to identify opportunities to enhance publicsafety and develop strategies to address any possible risks.
By strategically placing camerasin areas identified as vulnerable to vandalism and antisocial behaviour, police can bettermonitor and respond to incidents.
The cameras will also help ensure the safety and compliance of critical infrastructure, thereby supporting both public and aviation security.
The municipality has been assessed by Council staff and Tasmanian Police based on specific requirements to identify CCTV locations. The CCTV locations are:
• King Island Airport: To monitor airport safety and compliance, aircraft apron and aviation fuel storage, emergency management, and short-term car parking.
• Currie Skate Park, CBD, & Currie Oval: In consultation with Tasmania Police, to enhance safety for members of the public and discourage antisocial behaviour.
The cameras will only record activities in public spaces, ensuring no recording of private properties.
All private spaces within the camera’s field of view will be “masked out,” meaning these areas will neither be recorded nor viewed.
The cameras will not include the use of any facial recognition software.
Only approved personnel from the Tasmanian Police or Council will have access to the footage. Access is governed by a statewide agreement to protect privacy and security.
The camera system is not monitored continuously.
It is used for specific incidents or for managing council assets, ensuring effective and responsible use. Recorded images will be securely stored for a minimum of 31 days, balancing the need for incident investigation with data retention limits.
The statewide system complies with all relevant privacy regulations, adhering to high standards of privacy and data protection.
The King Island Council is committed to maintaining open communication with the community and providing clear information about the purpose, benefits, and safeguards of the CCTV system.
Public notifications and signage will be installed to inform residents and visitors of thepresence of the cameras.
The project has undertaken privacy impact assessments across all proposed camera sites to ensure that the impact on privacy is considered.
This includes compliance with privacy legislation. Data Security and Access All data will be securely stored, with access limited to Tasmanian Police and senior council officials through controlled protocols.
“The introduction of CCTV in public spaces on King Island aims to enhance community safety
and security. By addressing concerns about privacy, cost, and potential misuse, we aim to implement a system that benefits everyone,” the Council said in their CCTV Project Guidelines available on the Council’s website kingisland.tas.gov.au.
“Your feedback and support are crucial to the success of this initiative. We encourage residents to share their feedback and express any concerns they may have via any of the Council’s communication channels.”
Phone: 6462 9000
Post: PO Box 147, Currie TAS 7256
Email: kicouncil@kingisland.tas.gov.au
Through our Website: “Lodge a Service Request”
Or pop in and see us during business hours at 10 George St, Currie.
Feedback must be received by 4.30pm Monday, 22 July 2024