Read the full WACSSO Media Statement here.

School communities are being advised of a new Department of Education CEO Instruction that will prohibit the use of smart glasses on public school premises and at school-organised events and activities from 12 October 2026, at the beginning of Term 4. 

The Instruction applies to students, staff, parents, carers, visitors and contractors. Principals will be responsible for implementing the requirements within their school communities.  

Smart glasses are wearable devices that can include features such as photography, video recording, audio recording, internet connectivity, live streaming and artificial intelligence functionality. The Department has advised that the change responds to growing concerns around privacy, safety and wellbeing in school environments.  

The Department has identified a range of risks associated with smart glasses, including: 

• student and staff privacy
• child safety and wellbeing
• unauthorised recording and photography
• examination and assessment integrity
• cyber and information security
• disruption to teaching, learning and school operations. 

WACSSO supports measures that help schools maintain safe, respectful and effective learning environments, while recognising the importance of appropriate exemptions for medical, accessibility and assistive technology needs. The CEO Instruction allows principals to approve exemptions for approved medical, accessibility and assistive technology purposes, as well as educational programs specifically authorised by the principal.  

WACSSO encourages P&Cs and school families to familiarise themselves with the new requirements ahead of their commencement in Term 4 and to speak with their school principal if they have questions about local implementation.

What does this mean for P&Cs? 

P&C members, volunteers and attendees at school activities will need to comply with the new requirements when attending public schools and relevant school activities. Affiliates planning events in Term 4 should ensure they are aware of the new arrangements and work closely with their principal if they have questions about how the CEO Instruction applies in their local context. 

For more information, please refer to the CEO Instruction on the Department of Education’s website. Click here to access WACSSO’s FAQs for parents.

Comments Attributed to Pania Turner, President, WACSSO 

“Families rightly expect schools to be safe and trusted environments. As technology evolves, it’s important that schools, families and visitors have a shared understanding of what is expected in school settings.” 

“Just as importantly, the CEO Instruction recognises that some people rely on technology for medical and accessibility purposes, and provides pathways for appropriate exemptions where needed.” 

“Clear and consistent expectations help school communities navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies.”