Watching the Workforce: Monitoring, Surveillance and Employee Data Rights

Remote and hybrid work have accelerated the use of workplace monitoring tools, including keystroke logging, screen capture, location tracking and AI-driven productivity scoring. This session examines the legal and practical issues that arise when using these tools in Australia, including privacy, surveillance and workplace law considerations. It will also explore how employers can balance operational needs with employee rights, transparency and trust.

What you will learn:

• When the Privacy Act employee records exemption applies, and when it does not (including the application of the new statutory tort of privacy).

• How notice, consent and transparency obligations apply under the relevant federal, state and territories’ legislations.

• Practical steps for implementing workplace monitoring in a compliant and proportionate way.