GPS vehicle tracking refers to a system used to track and know a vehicle’s location using satellite tracking software. A navigation tracker gets data and communicates the vehicle’s location, speed, and direction.
With this, one can check vehicle movement, restrict speed, or find the vehicle’s current location.
Tracking device laws serve various purposes, including fleet management, vehicle security, and monitoring driver behaviour. It is important to note that there are rules regarding fleet tracking solutions in Australia.
What are the GPS Vehicle Tracking Laws in Western Australia?
If you are considering GPS vehicle tracking for your business, you must know the laws in your state or territory. In Western Australia, there are a few fundamental laws regarding fleet monitoring.
The Privacy Act 1988 establishes strict rules governing personal information collection, use, and disclosure, including information collected via GPS tracking devices.
If you plan to use GPS tracking for your business, you must ensure a clear and transparent privacy policy. This policy should explain to your employees and customers how your company will use navigation tracking and what information it will collect.
The Surveillance Devices Act 1998 prohibits using specific surveillance devices, including location tracking technology, without a warrant. The action means that if you want to use a geo-navigation system for your business, you will need to obtain a warrant from the police.
The Transport (Vehicle) Regulations 2014 also sets out some rules for using geofencing technology in vehicles. These regulations state that a person must not operate a car fitted with a GPS tracking device unless the device is:
- turned off when the car is not being used for business purposes;
- used following the driver’s privacy policy and
- used under any other relevant laws.
Also Read: Fleet Management System in Australia: Revolutionizing Efficiency on the Road
What Are the GPS Vehicle Tracking Laws in New South Wales?
Businesses and individuals should be aware of several GPS fleet tracking laws in New South Wales. The rules intend to ensure the privacy of individuals and that companies use vehicle location data judiciously.
The first GPS fleet tracking law in NSW is the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (PPIP Act). This act establishes the rules for collecting, using, and disclosing personal information.
It also gives individuals the right to access their personal information and to correct it if it is inaccurate.
NSW’s second GPS vehicle tracking law is the Surveillance Devices Act 2007 (SDA). This act regulates the use of surveillance devices, including driver monitoring systems.
It prohibits using surveillance devices in certain circumstances, such as recording a private conversation without the consent of all parties.
The final fleet tracking statute enacted in NSW is the Workplace Surveillance Act 2005 (WSA), which regulates workplace surveillance devices, including real-time GPS tracking.
All parties must give consent before recording anything else in a private conversation.
Businesses and individuals should familiarise themselves with the relevant laws before using GPS tracking devices in New South Wales.
Final Thoughts on GPS Vehicle Tracking Software
Knowing the relevant laws is essential if you use GPS fleet tracking software for your business. By understanding the rules that apply to satellite-based tracking, you can ensure that you use the technology legally and responsibly.
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