South Perth rangers have been equipped with body-worn cameras in a new push to improve safety, transparency and accountability.
Eight cameras have been deployed across the City of South Perth’s ranger team under a two-year, $45,000 contract.
The cameras will provide an objective record of face-to-face interactions between rangers and members of the public, while also helping gather evidence for compliance matters and, where required, WA Police investigations.
A City of South Perth spokesperson said the technology would help rangers spend more time in the community dealing with issues including parking and animal control.
“By providing a safer environment for our frontline employees, we can better support positive community interactions and deliver services that contribute to a safer community for everyone,” they said.
Camera IconCity of South Perth rangers are now using the latest technology in their daily duties. Credit: City of South Perth
Rangers can activate the cameras at their discretion when there are safety, operational, compliance, enforcement, investigative or evidentiary reasons to record an interaction.
They will wear visible identification indicating they have a body-worn camera and, where practical, notify people before recording begins.
Members of the public can ask for cameras to be switched off when rangers are on private property.
The cameras will not be used in private areas including toilets, bathrooms, showers and changerooms.
The city said footage would be captured, stored, retained and accessed in accordance with the Surveillance Devices Act 1998 and its governance and records management requirements.
“Access to recordings is restricted to authorised personnel and is only permitted for approved operational, investigative, evidentiary, or compliance purposes,” the spokesperson said.
South Perth rangers carry out duties including animal control, parking patrols, traffic and enforcement, protecting public infrastructure and supporting community safety.
Rangers can be contacted on 9474 0777.