The Albanese government is considering a ban on smart glasses in public offices and buildings, according to The Guardian. The proposal has been described as "world-leading," the outlet reports.
The measure is being examined as part of a broader set of new rules on artificial intelligence, ABC News reports. Katy Gallagher, the minister linked to the proposal, is exploring the restriction after the eyewear was dubbed "creepy" within the Australian Public Service, according to The Canberra Times.
Coverage of the plan has drawn comparisons to Australia's earlier move on social media, with The Courier Mail framing the smart glasses question as another potential world-leading ban. News.com.au also reported that Labor is weighing significant action on the devices.
The reporting so far centers on government workplaces rather than a nationwide prohibition. The Guardian's headline refers specifically to public offices and buildings, and the other outlets describe the measure as under consideration rather than settled. No draft legislation, timeline or enforcement details have been reported in the material available.
Smart glasses typically carry cameras and microphones, which has raised concerns about recording in sensitive settings. The reports do not specify which devices or functions would fall under the proposed restriction, nor how it would be applied across agencies.
The story is still at the exploratory stage. What to watch next is whether the government formally announces a policy, and whether any ban extends beyond public service buildings.