Dana Maree Grey, 59, is facing at least six months in jail for inflicting “gratuitous cruelty” on an 85-year-old woman with dementia at a North Epping aged care home last year after footage of the incident was recorded by the co-worker.
They had installed the camera – illegally – after becoming worried about the welfare of residents and wanting evidence before making a formal report.
While the use of secret cameras raises serious legal issues – including residents’ rights to privacy and dignity – in this case, we can’t help but admire the worker’s move.
Legal implications of cameras in residents’ rooms
It is important to remember that surveillance should only be allowed with the permission of residents or their families and guardians.
Providers also must ensure that the use of any camera is agreed to by the resident and complies with state or territory legislation.
A reminder too that surveillance can go the other way – earlier this year, two aged care workers were cleared of assaulting a resident after evidence from a secret camera installed by a resident’s son was dismissed by the magistrate.
