Council
27 September, 2026
Yass Valley to ban smart glasses at swimming facilities
Yass Valley will implement an immediate ban on smart glasses and other “covert recording devices” at local swimming facilities as it prepares a broader policy.
Yass Valley will implement an immediate ban on smart glasses and other “covert recording devices” at local swimming facilities as it prepares a broader policy.
Council passed the resolution at its September meeting on the motion of Mayor Jasmin Jones.
While council is currently preparing a broader policy on the use of smart glasses and other recording devices at its facilities, Cr Jones said there was a need for appropriate controls to be put in place immediately with the 2026-27 swimming season about to commence.
She said those controls on devices capable of filming, recording and sharing images and videos would ensure that vulnerable members of the community “are protected from those that may seek to exploit them”.
“By enacting this Mayoral Minute we are demonstrating to the community that we hear their concerns,” Cr Jones said.
“We are acting on these concerns and we are responding in a timely manner to ensure that the community can go about their recreational activities without fear of covert surveillance.”
The ban will be in place at the Yass Memorial and Binnalong swimming pools – although council will be in a position to make exceptions, such as for people with disabilities.
Cr Alvaro Charry described it as a “very contentious” topic giving rise to a whole range of moral questions.
He said council had a duty of care but questioned whether or not it had the authority to enforce a ban.
He also expressed concern that council was expecting too much from its staff given they were already under a considerable amount of pressure.
Cr Jones said it was “really tough” being a teenager and they shouldn’t have to worry about being recorded without their permission.
“If it (the ban) saves one teenage life, then we’ve done our job,” she said.
She said the ban would also allow parents to “switch off, relax and enjoy their time at the pool” with their families.
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