Latest News

Back to Latest News back

 

Privacy Commissioner questions use of facial recognition technology at Queensland stadiums

Privacy Commissioner questions use of facial recognition technology at Queensland stadiums
June 5, 2019

Queensland’s Privacy Commissioner has been reported as questioning Stadiums Queensland’s trialling of facial recognition software on sports fans and concertgoers at its venues.

While media outlets have reported on the issue today in advance of the first rugby league State of Origin clash at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, Australasian Leisure Management revealed in August last year that the technology was to be introduced at the Gabba and Suncorp Stadium.

With Stadiums Queensland having commenced a trial of facial recognition software at its venues, the agency has confirmed data is being shared with Queensland Police.

The trial is seeing patrons being monitored in real time, with their biometric data potentially being stored and shared with other agencies.

While Stadiums Queensland (SQ) venues display privacy warnings about the use of CCTV, there is no signage suggesting facial recognition technology is in operation.

Queensland Privacy Commissioner Phil Green said the public deserved to be aware their images and data were being captured and encouraged agencies to conduct a privacy impact assessment.

Green told the ABC “it's certainly something for any large-scale technology implementation like that, that we recommend.

"It's simply good practice to identify risks of conducting this sort of surveillance and using facial recognition - those risks are being identified worldwide at the moment.

"It's been demonstrated that bias can creep in, depending on what databases you're using and who's in the database, and the algorithms themselves."

Green said when facial recognition is used by matching a particular image in a database to someone in a crowd - otherwise known as the "one to many" approach - bias could evolve in the use of the technology.

He advised “the quality of the images is one of the big variables, particularly in a big crowd.

"The technology is getting better, but it's been demonstrated that bias can creep in depending on what databases you're using and who's in the database, and then also the algorithms themselves.

"It's been highlighted in the US and in the UK where certain populations are represented in databases more broadly – (such as) African Americans.

"I would imagine in Australia there's a potential for ethnic minorities to be over-represented in the justice system, to be singled out in the crowds more readily just because there are more images (in the database)."

A Stadiums Queensland spokesperson confirmed the trial was underway and that data was being shared, stating “at this time, such software is only being used to identify patterns and anomalies in crowd behaviour (such as abandoned bags or long queues).

"As indicated in the terms of entry, ticketholders agree to being filmed by CCTV for the purpose of venue security and public safety upon entry to Stadiums Queensland venues."

There was no mention of the rollout in the Stadiums Queensland annual report released late last year and the spokesperson would not confirm the venues where it was being trialled for security reasons.

Similar mass surveillance technology is used at major stadiums in NSW and Victoria.

Image: Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium in NRL mode.

Related Articles

3rd June 2019 - Queensland Government commits $35 million to the Gabba, secures first Ashes test of 2021

26th April 2019 - NRL Magic Round sees eight clubs commit to community engagement events

4th March 2019 - Queensland Government looks to attract naming rights partner for the Gabba

1st November 2018 - New venture meets venues’ clear bag security needs

19th December 2018 - Taskforce sets out future for Stadiums Queensland venues

17th December 2018 - Crowds - and losses - rise at Stadiums Queensland venues in 2017/18

14th December 2018 - Facial recognition software used to detect security risks at Taylor Swift Los Angeles concert

2nd August 2018 - Suncorp Stadium and The Gabba to install facial recognition security cameras

3rd December 2017 - Tokyo Disneyland looks to introduce facial recognition for pass holder access

13th November 2017 - Facial recognition to drive new sporting revenues

6th October 2017 - Queensland Government announces counter-terrorism and stadium security enhancements

1st January 2016 - SCG Trust advises fans to plan for enhanced Test match security


Support our industry news service
We hope that you value the news that we publish so while you're here can we ask for your support?

As an independent publisher, we need reader support for our industry news gathering so ask that - if you don't already do so - you back us by subscribing to the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine and/or our online news.

 

supplier directory

The Complete Guide to Leisure Industry Products & Services.

See the directory see all

Vivaticket

As of the 1st July 2018, Enta Australasia Pty Ltd/Best Union has been rebranded as Vivaticket Pty Ltd.  Vivaticket is the ideal strategic partner for the organisation and management of your…

read more

Attractions / Entertainment / Sport / Ticketing / Venues

 
 

Altitude Training Systems

ATS are global leaders in altitude training and research. From mask systems and inflatable tents to simulated altitude facilities, we help all athletes gain the competitive edge. Our…

read more

Fitness / Sport / Technology

 
 

Smart Connection Consultancy

Smart Connection Consultancy is a boutique sport and recreation consultancy who has become one of Australia’s leading advocates for the use of synthetic sports surfaces as a vehicle to grow…

read more

Consultants / Recreation / Sport / Surfaces

 
 

Felton Industries

Felton Industries is Australia’s leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of quality outdoor furniture and has been supplying premium seating solutions for all sporting, commercial, community…

read more

Parks / Play / Recreation / Sport / Venues

 
 

COMMERCIAL AQUATICS AUSTRALIA

Commercial Aquatics Australia provides aquatic solutions nationwide and is one of the largest and most experienced companies specialising in the design, construction, renovation, service, maintenance…

read more

Aquatics / Design / Play / Waterparks

 
 

Fun Wheels Pty Ltd

Fun Wheels Pty Ltd are the premium dealer in Australasia for the Dutch company BERG’s commercial and domestic products. Our flagship product is their revolutionary pedal go-kart – the…

read more

Attractions / Tourism / Venues

 
 

Envibe

With its sleek good looks and easy-to-use yet powerful functionality, Envibe is the premium fitness club software for the Australasian leisure, recreation and fitness industry. We are the most…

read more

Aquatics / Fitness / Recreation / Technology

 
 

TPEC Pool Enclosures

TPEC Pool Enclosures provide a large range of premium commercial and residential retractable swimming pool, spa and terrace enclosures throughout Australia, servicing residential, local government…

read more

Aquatics / Design / Recreation / Venues

 
 
 
 

get listed with our suppliers directory

Get your business noticed in our targeted directory. Viewed by 10,000 industry professionals per week!

list your business