Tag: Cbd

Brisbane’s CBD: 400+ Facial Scans Per Visit, Expert Reveals

A cyber technology expert has highlighted the extensive surveillance network operating in Brisbane’s Central Business District (CBD), suggesting that an individual’s facial data could be captured over 400 times during a single visit.

Read: Justin Lane Breathes New Life into Iconic Valley Corner

This comprehensive monitoring system includes more than 3,750 cameras operated by Brisbane, along with numerous devices on public transportation.

David Tuffley, a senior lecturer in cyber technology at Griffith University, notes that many residents might be unaware of the prevalence of such surveillance. He points out that while some organisations using facial recognition technology may not publicise this fact, these systems are becoming increasingly common throughout the city.

Photo credit: Iacopo Grandi/Pixabay

The recently opened Star Casino in Brisbane exemplifies this trend, having implemented advanced facial recognition technology. The system’s effectiveness was demonstrated when it identified and subsequently banned a woman for five years who had voluntarily registered as a problematic gambler.

According to Tuffley, the council’s camera network operates in conjunction with the Police Department’s Q-Face system. This integration allows for rapid identification of individuals by comparing live footage against a database containing millions of images, including those with outstanding arrest warrants.

Read: Viral Fortitude Valley ‘Succulent Chinese Meal Guy’ Battles Prostate Cancer

On a positive note, the extensive CCTV network in Brisbane has shown potential benefits for public safety and crime prevention. Earlier this year, Brisbane deployed an additional 240 cameras to strengthen its surveillance system, aiming to deter criminal activity and support law enforcement efforts. 

This expansion was partly in response to increasing reports of youth crime, with the new cameras providing round-the-clock monitoring in strategically chosen locations. 

According to local authorities, the positioning of these devices was determined in collaboration with the Queensland Police Service, focusing on areas deemed high-risk or with high pedestrian traffic. 

The enhanced surveillance network may not only aid in crime prevention but also assist in rapid response to incidents and provide valuable evidence for investigations, potentially contributing to a safer urban environment for Brisbane residents and visitors.

Published 30-September-2024

Improved CBD Transport Part of Brisbane Election Pitches

Operating hours for night buses in the CBD could be expanded, and fares could be waived to guarantee safe and economical transportation home from the City and Fortitude Valley.

Read: E-Scooter Safety Heightens Concerns Following Fortitude Valley Collision

This would happen if one particular party wins the next election in Brisbane. Under the proposal, fareboxes would be turned off between midnight and 5:00 a.m. to ensure people have a safe and affordable way of getting home.

It’s part of Brisbane Labor’s three-tiered approach to transport in Brisbane, which includes cheaper public transport, making buses more accessible and more frequent, and tackling roads and congestion. 

Labor candidate for Lord Mayor Tracey Price stated that rising costs are challenging residents who want to save money and time when travelling. She emphasised the need for safe, affordable transit as the population grows.

The Labor party has also proposed a 50 percent reduction in bus fares for Zone 1 and Zone 2 in Brisbane, which they believe would save commuters around $1,000 a year in fares. 

Photo credit: Translink/Facebook

Meanwhile, LNP councillor Ryan Murphy critiqued Labor’s pledge to subsidise bus fares, which he argues would unfairly burden Brisbane ratepayers to benefit the whole South East Queensland region. Murphy also suggested Labor’s plans allow no room to expand the Brisbane Metro beyond 2024.

Brisbane Metro is an all-electric, high-capacity turn-up-and-go public transport system, which is designed to link the city to the suburbs. It will deliver major infrastructure throughout the city, including a new tunnel beneath Adelaide Street and revitalised streetscape from North Quay to Edward Street.

Greens’ Proposal

Photo credit: jonathansri.com

The Greens outlined their own vision for the CBD, pushing to create a “green spine” along Albert Street closed to cars. Lord mayoral hopeful Jonathan Sriranganathan also called for lowering speed limits from 40 to 30kph to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. He believes most drivers already struggle to reach 40kph in congested peak times.

“Our plan would turn Albert St into a relaxed and lively ‘Green Spine’ linking together the whole CBD. It would run from the entrance to Roma St Parklands at Turbot St, through King George Square, the Queen Street Mall, past the new Albert St train station all the way to the Botanic Gardens,” said Sriranganathan.

Read: Works Progressing Well on Adelaide Street for Brisbane Metro

The election promises showcase each party’s approach to upgrading transit infrastructure and improving affordability and accessibility for Brisbane residents. With the election nearing, the campaigns are ramping up efforts to showcase their transportation solutions.

Published 30-January-2024