The major Aussie stadiums using facial recognition technology

Some of Australia’s main stadiums are utilizing controversial facial recognition expertise, typically with out spectators’ data or consent, in accordance with Australia’s shopper advocacy group.

Choice seemed into the privateness insurance policies and circumstances of entry for 10 stadiums throughout the nation and located not less than 4 are utilizing facial recognition expertise.

Allianz Stadium, Sydney. — Stadiums in Sydney and Melbourne have been discovered to be utilizing facial recognition expertise. (9News)

Now Choice has discovered facial recognition expertise – which data a buyer’s faceprint – is getting used at some stadiums together with Sydney Cricket Ground, Allianz Stadium, and Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney and Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne.

RAC Arena and Suncorp Stadium have additionally been named however the venues say the expertise could also be used “when available”.

Venues NSW, which owns and operates the Sydney Cricket Ground and Allianz Stadium, stated: ”We abide strictly with our privacy obligations. We do not monetise facial recognition data.”

Choice shopper information advocate Kate Bower stated it is regarding the expertise is getting used with out “clear information” for patrons about the place, how and why it’s deployed.

Venue	Using facial recognition expertise?
Sydney Cricket Ground	Yes
Allianz Stadium	Yes
Melbourne Cricket Ground	Yes
Qudos Bank Arena	Yes
RAC Arena	Unclear
Suncorp Stadium	Unclear
Accor Stadium	No
Marvel Stadium	No
Commbank Stadium	No
Optus Stadium	No

“We’re particularly worried about Qudos Bank Arena, owned by Ticketek’s parent company TEG – one of the biggest players in the Australian data broking space,” Bower stated.

“TEG is not clear on how and why they collect and use facial recognition data, leaving the door open for harmful selling and sharing of sensitive biometric information.”

9news.com.au has contacted TEG and Qudos Bank Arena for remark.

Qudos Bank Arena terms of entry — Conditions of entry outdoors Qudos Bank Arena say facial recognition is used on the venue. (Choice)

Qudos Bank Arena has a capability of 21,000 and hosts main leisure occasions just like the upcoming Disney on Ice and US popstar Lizzo’s live performance.

“The amount of biometric data that potentially could be collected, stored and shared by TEG just in 2023 is massive,” Bower stated.

As a results of the findings, Choice is asking for stronger regulation of facial recognition expertise to guard prospects’ privateness.

Qudos Bank Arena hosts main leisure and sporting occasions. (Choice)

Bower stated if the expertise is getting used, prospects ought to have the choice to choose in or out.

“Instead, any details regarding the use of this technology are usually buried deep in a privacy policy or conditions of entry,” she stated.

“Clear guidelines are needed to ensure safe and responsible use of facial recognition technology, and to hold businesses to account when they are using this controversial technology inappropriately or dangerously.”