Sales in spy cameras spike as families say they’re ‘fearful’ of aged care abuse

Last week, you may have seen this story on 7News that reported that retailers say they’ve seen a rise in ‘spy camera’ purchases as an increasing number of residents’ families say they want to keep an eye on their older loved ones.

The owner of an Australian website that sells hidden cameras said he’s seen a spike in the number of families fearful that their parents or grandparents are being abused, and believe the technology (which can cost between $300 and $400 a camera) could give them peace of mind.

This sales spike may be a result of the very sad stories we’ve seen coming out of the Royal Commission – which has already heard plenty of calls for the mandatory use of CCTV cameras in all common areas of aged care homes (and private areas, with the consent of residents) – keeping in mind most homes already do use cameras.

And the Government is clearly paying attention to these calls.

In our newsletter last month, we told you about the Australian-first, Government-funded $500,000 trial of CCTV cameras across five aged care homes in South Australia – using cameras from the UK-based surveillance tech company, Care Protect.

But there are legal aspects to consider

Of course, it is very understandable that families want to guarantee the highest level of safety and care for their Mums and Dads, but legal experts are also urging anyone who is seriously considering the use of cameras in a loved ones’ home to make sure they’re doing their research before installing a device – and consider any potential legal consequences.

Firstly, if you are considering the use of a camera, it’s vital that you first get consent from the facility you plan to use it in.

It is illegal to secretly install surveillance without the facility’s knowledge – because it’s not just the privacy of your loved one or other residents that is involved, but also the privacy of aged care staff who work in the home.

Secondly, it is incredibly important that the person whose room you want to install the camera in gives their permission too – and is completely aware of all aspects of the surveillance.

And even in the instance that you obtain consent from both the facility and a resident, remember that publicly publishing the footage you record may not be legal either.

We certainly recommend seeking legal advice before moving forward with any use of a camera.