The Albanese government is exploring the possibility of banning smart glasses in federal offices and service centers, following actions by local councils across Australia that have introduced targeted restrictions on the devices. These smart glasses, which function similarly to wearable cameras and can record audio and video, have raised privacy concerns. While the government has not imposed a national ban on importing smart glasses, it is encouraging individual workplaces to develop their own policies. Public service minister Katy Gallagher has asked for input from the Australian public service about whether smart glasses should be prohibited, highlighting the need for clear and consistent guidance for public servants. She noted that the devices can pose legitimate privacy and security risks due to their ability to record sensitive information. Smart glasses have grown in popularity, but their use has also sparked public concern. A study by the University of Sydney found that 60% of videos filmed with smart glasses and posted on Instagram could be classified as potential harassment. Commonwealth-run workplaces, such as government offices, Centrelink service centers, and CSIRO laboratories, would be subject to federal guidelines, while schools and hospitals managed by state governments would determine their own policies regarding the technology. Although no national government has banned smart glasses across all agencies, some courts and organizations have taken steps to restrict their use. Courts in England and Wales, as well as New York state in the U.S., have banned the technology, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency reportedly treats smart glasses like body-worn cameras, prohibiting them in federal workspaces. In Australia, several local councils have introduced targeted bans. For example, the mayor of Canterbury-Bankstown referred to the devices as "pervert glasses" and banned them in public pools. Brisbane and Yarra city councils have also imposed restrictions, prohibiting smart glasses in pools, playgrounds, childcare centers, and gyms. Federal attorney general Michelle Rowland has praised these local actions and said she would consult businesses on their approach. She emphasized the need to balance privacy concerns with the risk of unfair discrimination against users of the technology. Some groups, including Vision Australia and individuals with disabilities, have praised smart glasses as a valuable tool for people who are blind or have low vision. Rowland stated that the government is not currently pursuing a ban but has not ruled out any measures. Gallagher, meanwhile, has expressed a desire for the Australian public service to lead the way in setting a national standard for smart glasses use, ensuring that policies keep up with the rapid evolution of technology. The potential restrictions on smart glasses would be the latest workplace technology reform from the federal government, following recent guidance on the use of artificial intelligence in the public service. The guidelines suggest that employees do not need to be consulted on every new tool, but should be involved in discussions about major initiatives or changes to how their work is conducted. Major businesses, including Commonwealth Bank, Microsoft, and Telstra, are contributing to new national guidelines on AI in workplaces, as the government seeks to learn from companies already using the technology. Employment minister Amanda Rishworth emphasized the importance of ensuring that workers and businesses adopt new technologies with confidence, knowing that appropriate safeguards are in place.