The New South Wales Government has launched an ‘urgent review’ after a ruling by the NSW Administrative Decisions Tribunal raised doubts over the legality of CCTV cameras.

The ruling has seen all CCTV cameras in the Shoalhaven Council area switched off on the grounds that they breached privacy laws.

Premier Barry O’Farrell said that the State Government must now take urgent action to keep cameras in operation around the state.

“CCTV is a vital tool in the fight against crime and I am determined to ensure they remain so,” Mr O’Farrell said.

“I’ve asked the Attorney General to seek urgent advice on the implications and whether legislative amendments are required to validate the continued use of CCTV,” he said.

“I want to see these cameras switched back on in the Shoalhaven as soon as possible.