CCTV is increasingly common in strata environments across Australia, including apartment buildings, shared complexes, and owners corporation-managed properties.
Strata CCTV is usually installed for:
- entry security
- preventing unauthorised access
- monitoring shared car parks
- reducing vandalism
- supporting incident investigations
However, strata CCTV is also one of the most common sources of privacy complaints, because it involves shared governance and cameras operating in common areas.
This page provides strata-specific CCTV compliance guidance, including best practices for signage, access control, privacy masking, and committee governance.
⚠ Important: This tool is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Strata CCTV obligations vary by state, building rules, and circumstances.
CCTV Compliance Checker PRO (Australia)
Industry guidance + compliance checklist + editable privacy policy template
This tool provides general guidance only. CCTV compliance depends on state law, industry context, and site-specific circumstances. Always consult a qualified privacy or legal professional if compliance is critical.
Step 1 — Site & Industry Details
Step 2 — Full Compliance Questions
1. Primary purpose of CCTV?
2. Are you recording audio?
3. Is CCTV in a public-facing area?
4. Do cameras capture outside your boundary?
5. Are employees being monitored?
6. Live monitoring or recording only?
7. Using facial recognition or advanced analytics?
8. Who can access recordings?
9. Retention period?
10. CCTV signage installed?
Strata CCTV Compliance — Key Considerations
Strata CCTV systems are typically installed in:
- foyers and lobbies
- lift entrances
- shared hallways
- car parks and garages
- building perimeter entry points
Because CCTV operates in shared spaces, best practice includes:
✅ Avoid Capturing Private Lots or Balconies
Cameras should not intrude into:
- private balconies
- apartment windows
- private courtyards
- neighbouring lots
Privacy masking is often recommended.
✅ Committee and Access Governance
One of the biggest strata risks is uncontrolled access.
Footage should only be accessible by:
- strata manager
- authorised committee representative
- approved security contractor
Not all residents should have access.
✅ Clear CCTV Signage in Common Areas
Signs should be placed at:
- entrances
- lobby areas
- monitored shared spaces
Transparency reduces disputes.
✅ Reasonable Retention Periods
Most strata buildings retain footage for 14–30 days, unless incidents require longer.
✅ Written CCTV Policy Strongly Recommended
Strata CCTV policies should document:
- purpose
- monitored areas
- access permissions
- retention period
- complaint/contact process
✅ Strata CCTV Compliance FAQ (Australia)
1. Can strata buildings install CCTV in common areas?
Yes. CCTV is common in strata buildings for security and safety, but it must be operated responsibly.
2. Do strata committees need approval before installing cameras?
Often yes. CCTV installation may require committee approval, owners corporation processes, or compliance with building rules.
3. Where can strata CCTV cameras be installed?
Common locations include:
- foyers
- entrances
- lifts
- car parks
- perimeter gates
4. Can strata CCTV face private balconies or windows?
Best practice is no. Cameras should avoid capturing private lots. Privacy masking may be required.
5. Who owns strata CCTV footage?
Typically the owners corporation or strata body controls the footage, not individual residents.
6. Can residents request access to CCTV footage?
This depends on strata governance rules and privacy considerations. Access should be tightly controlled.
7. Who should be allowed to view strata CCTV footage?
Usually only authorised persons such as:
- strata manager
- approved committee representative
- security provider
8. Do strata buildings need CCTV signage?
Yes. Signage in common areas improves transparency and reduces complaints.
9. How long should strata CCTV footage be kept?
Many strata buildings use retention periods of 14–30 days unless longer storage is justified.
10. Can strata CCTV record audio?
Audio recording is highly sensitive and usually discouraged in residential shared environments.
11. What is the biggest CCTV dispute in strata?
The most common disputes involve:
- cameras capturing private areas
- unclear committee access
- residents feeling monitored
- lack of signage
12. Can strata CCTV footage be provided to police?
Yes, where relevant to an investigation and lawful.
13. Can strata CCTV footage be shared with other residents?
Generally no. Sharing footage widely can create privacy issues.
14. Should strata buildings have a written CCTV policy?
Yes. A written CCTV policy is one of the best ways to prevent disputes and ensure consistent governance.
15. What should a strata CCTV policy include?
At minimum:
- purpose of CCTV
- monitored locations
- access rules
- retention period
- disclosure process
- complaint handling contact