What did the ruling change for Bunnings?

A tribunal overturned the privacy commissioner’s finding and allowed Bunnings to use AI face-matching for a narrow security purpose. The decision supports an 18-month rollout with stronger signage and privacy controls. It does not permit broad customer profiling or marketing uses, and ongoing regulatory oversight still applies.

Does the decision allow scanning every shopper?

The ruling permits use for security against repeat offenders, not general tracking or marketing. Cameras may capture images at entry, but matching should be limited to a restricted watchlist and strict safeguards. Bunnings facial recognition must focus on safety and loss prevention, with clear notices and governance controls.

What privacy safeguards should customers expect in stores?

Customers should see clear entrance signage, updated privacy statements, and trained staff. Strong controls include access logs, short retention for non-matches, defined deletion timelines, and complaint channels. These steps support the Australia privacy ruling’s focus on necessity, proportionality, and transparency in real retail settings.

What is the policy risk for Wesfarmers now?

Wesfarmers policy risk remains while the OAIC reviews the decision and could issue guidance or pursue further action. State rules and cyber obligations still apply. Investors should track signage rollouts, accuracy metrics, independent testing, and board-level disclosures as Bunnings facial recognition scales across the network.

Law and Government

February 08: Bunnings Facial Recognition Ruling Clears Australia Rollout

ByDanny Kontos February 8, 2026February 8, 2026

Bunnings facial recognition was cleared for use after a tribunal overturned the privacy commissioner’s finding, setting up an 18-month rollout across Australia. The decision backs limited use of AI to deter repeat retail crime, with stronger signage and privacy controls. We see scope for wider retail trials, but policy risk remains while the OAIC reviews the ruling. For Wesfarmers, owner of Bunnings, the outcome reduces near-term operational friction, yet it does not remove appeal risk or future rule changes. We outline what changed, rollout steps, and what to watch.