REFORMS in the ACT will see bar and nightclub licensed venues required to use security cameras, with footage is to be retained for 30 days.

The changes were introduced in the Liquor Amendment Bill 2023 on Wednesday, aiming to deter violent incidents and support venues and police to conduct thorough investigations.

Previously, security camera requirements for bars and nightclubs have not been consistent. Requirements have been determined either by terms settled by the regulator as part of a venue’s Risk-Assessment Management Plan or by the imposition of standard terms applied as a security camera condition (introduced in 2017) on the licence.

The new legislation will require security cameras in licenced venues to be clearly visible, with a sign at each entrance to indicate that patrons may be recorded.

In consideration of privacy requirements, deletion of security camera footage will be required after 90 days at the latest.