On March 4, 2026, Australia’s Cyber Security (Smart Device Security Standards) Rules 2025—formulated under the Cyber Security Act 2024—will be officially enforced. This new regulation clearly defines security standards, responsible entities, and penalty mechanisms for all connected smart devices, becoming a core threshold for enterprises entering the Australian market. As a core connected device in the home security sector, smart cameras are designated as a key regulated category under the new rules due to their high-frequency connectivity. This guide details the core compliance points, regulatory requirements, and testing directions for smart cameras to meet Australia’s cybersecurity regulations, helping manufacturers align with the rules accurately, pass compliance testing smoothly, and seize market opportunities in Australia.

I. Smart Cameras Classified as a Key Regulated Category Under Australia’s New Cybersecurity Rules

As a core connected device in home security, smart cameras are widely used in Australian homes and commercial settings for their functions such as remote real-time monitoring, video storage, and motion detection alerts. However, their connectivity also makes them frequent targets of cyberattacks, leading to their classification as a key regulated category under Australia’s new cybersecurity rules. For smart camera manufacturers planning to enter the Australian market, accurate alignment with regulatory requirements and completion of compliance testing are prerequisites for successful market entry.

II. Core Compliance Requirements for Smart Cameras to Meet Australia’s 2026 Cybersecurity Rules

In line with Australia’s 2026 cybersecurity regulations, the core compliance requirements for smart cameras focus on three key areas, each with clear legal basis, as detailed below:

(1) Password Security Compliance: Strictly Prohibit Pre-Set Universal Default Passwords

The new regulation explicitly bans universal default passwords for all regulated smart devices—a critical requirement for smart cameras. Historical cases of old-generation smart cameras being hacked due to universal default passwords, resulting in the leakage of users’ surveillance footage, have driven this mandatory rule. Smart cameras must meet one of the two following conditions at the factory:

• Generate a unique and unpredictable initial password for each device;
• Force users to set a custom high-strength password on first boot.

In line with international standards and implicit regulatory requirements:

• Custom passwords must be at least 10 characters long, containing uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols.
• Devices must have a built-in password strength detection function to automatically reject weak passwords such as pure numbers or consecutive characters.

(2) Robust and Implementable Security Vulnerability Reporting Mechanism

The new regulation mandates manufacturers to establish a 24/7 accessible, free, and user-friendly security vulnerability reporting channel that allows issue submission without requiring users to provide personal information. For smart cameras, if firmware vulnerabilities lead to security incidents such as video data leakage, surveillance footage tampering, or unauthorized device access, manufacturers must activate an emergency response mechanism within 48 hours:

1. Synchronize risk details and mitigation plans with Australia’s cybersecurity regulators;
2. Notify users via in-device push notifications and official website announcements, providing temporary protective measures (e.g., suspending remote access, deploying interim patches) until the vulnerability is fully fixed.

(3) Clear and Compliant Security Update Support Cycle

While the new regulation does not specify a uniform mandatory support cycle, industry practices and regulatory guidelines require smart cameras to receive security update services for no less than 5 years after product discontinuation. This means manufacturers must continue to release firmware security patches for 5 years post-discontinuation to fix known vulnerabilities, ensuring full-lifecycle security protection and preventing cybersecurity risks caused by outdated, unpatched devices.

Additional requirements for security updates:

• Patches must be transmitted via encrypted channels to prevent tampering during the update process;
• Devices must support automatic update detection to remind users to upgrade in a timely manner, avoiding security loopholes from missed updates.

(4) Preparation and Retention of Compliance Declarations

Smart camera manufacturers must also prepare and retain a Document of Compliance (DOC). The declaration must include at least 12 core elements: product model, batch code, manufacturer & local Australian authorized representative information, security update support cycle, password security compliance statement, etc. Signed by the enterprise’s responsible person, the DOC must be properly retained for at least 5 years for regulatory inspections.

III. Guangdong Energy Storage Testing: End-to-End Compliance Testing Services for Smart Cameras in Australia

Guangdong Energy Storage Testing Technology Co., Ltd. offers targeted compliance testing services for smart cameras based on the three core requirements above, including:

• Password strength testing
• Effectiveness verification of vulnerability reporting channels
• Validation of security update support cycles
• Guidance on compliance declaration preparation

Our services precisely align with the new regulatory requirements, helping enterprises quickly identify non-compliance issues and implement rectifications. We ensure products pass compliance inspections smoothly, enabling efficient entry into the Australian market, breaking trade barriers, and enhancing core product competitiveness.

IV. Conclusion

The implementation of Australia’s 2026 cybersecurity regulations sets higher compliance standards for smart cameras. The three core requirements—password security, vulnerability reporting, and security updates—directly determine whether products can enter the Australian market. With professional testing capabilities and rich compliance experience, Guangdong Energy Storage Testing Technology Co., Ltd. provides end-to-end compliance solutions for smart camera manufacturers, covering compliance assessment, testing & rectification, and declaration preparation. We help enterprises reduce compliance costs and achieve safe, compliant product export to global markets.