Council's camera consult - The Moorabool News

By Matt Romania

A four-week consultation period for the community concerning its proposed CCTV policy has been opened by Moorabool Shire Council.

The aim is to gather community insights and feedback on the use of CCTV in various parts of the Shire, including public spaces, Council facilities, and roadsides.

Moorabool Mayor Cr Rod Ward said this policy will support decision-making about where CCTV cameras are installed across the shire.

“This could include locations such as public spaces, Council facilities and on roadsides,” he said.

“The draft policy also details how members of the public can request access to footage and how Council will manage the data.”

This initiative comes at a time when Moorabool lacks a standing policy on the installation and usage of CCTV cameras. Therefore, the consultation seeks to involve residents in shaping this vital piece of surveillance policy before its final endorsement by the Council.

Key points of the proposed policy include guidelines on how the Council will implement, manage, and eventually terminate CCTV systems in public areas such as roads and footpaths, as well as in Council-owned or managed locations.

Members of the community are encouraged to voice their opinions and can do so via an online survey or by making a direct submission. The deadline for input is set for 7 September 2023, and further specifics on the policy and the consultation process are accessible on the Council’s official website.

After evaluating the community feedback, Council will seek to adopt the updated CCTV policy in October 2023.

“We would love to hear community thoughts on the aspects of the policy that relate to CCTV systems in spaces that you might frequent, such as public spaces and Council buildings you may visit,” Cr Ward said.

The policy specifies areas where CCTV will NOT be permitted, such as: