A surveillance program by Brisbane City Council utilises a network of covert cameras to monitor littering across the city, netting significant fines for offenders. These cameras capture a variety of unusual activities, including one individual caught igniting a rubbish bag at Mount Coot-tha’s car park last September.
In October, a couple received a fine for leaving a small amount of paper on the ground after reportedly being seen engaged in more intimate activities inside their vehicle. According to information obtained by 9News, there have been 111 penalties issued this year alone for littering smaller than 200 litres, which incurs a fine of $322 for individuals or $1613 for companies.
The program employs approximately 30 disguised cameras, strategically stationed in high-traffic areas, and is rotated every few weeks to deter litterers and adapt to new locations. Councillor Sarah Hutton stressed that this initiative plays a crucial role in safeguarding Brisbane’s environment and lifestyle.
She reiterated a clear message: anyone considering dumping rubbish under the assumption that they won’t be observed will face repercussions. However, concerns have been raised about the normalisation of covert surveillance. Michael Cope from the Queensland Council for Civil Liberties highlighted that while such surveillance was initially justified in the context of combating terrorism and violent crime, catching litterers seems an inadequate rationale.
Overall, while the initiative aims to clean up the city and promote responsible behaviour, it also raises important questions regarding privacy and the extent of surveillance in everyday life.