Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said the trial is the first in Tasmania's local government sector, with two body cameras being utilised in the trial.

“We want the public to know this is a trial period and for them to come back to us with any comments, if they think it’s a great idea, they have difficulties with it, and why,” he said.

He said body cameras had been effective in other states, showing a decrease in violence in the City of Ryde in Sydney over a three to four-year period. 

“They’ve been loaned to us [the cameras], which is fantastic, there’s no cost at this stage, but obviously if we go ahead we’ll have to purchase some cameras.” 

Alderman van Zetten said although there may be privacy concerns, surveillance is already widespread with smartphones and CCTV footage in ATM’s, retail stores, and taxis. 

“Anyone who’s doing the right thing will have absolutely nothing to fear,” he said. 

“I think once people see they’re on camera, they do behave differently.” 

Body cameras should provide increased protection to officers, Alderman van Zetten said, particularly with ongoing issues of violence in the CBD.

He said it would then be up to police to prosecute individuals based on the evidence. 

“We’re thankful we haven’t had a lot of those serious incidents.

“But we know we live in a stage especially with drugs now and ice out there, and a lot more aggressive people, and we just want to have this as a protection and safety for our staff.”  

Manager Andrew Frost said the cameras had proved reliable in other states, and if the Launceston trial is successful it could be rolled out to other councils throughout Tasmania.  

He said the technology will be reviewed throughout the trial. 

- The Examiner