Press Release

26 October 2007

New security control room at Parliament

The Speaker, Hon Margaret Wilson, today opened a new security control room at Parliament.

The state-of-the-art room and equipment will help monitor security and safety as well as facilitate the co-ordination of any emergency response at Parliament.

The need for a new control room was one of three major projects identified in the Security Strategic Plan developed by the Parliamentary Service after 9/11. The others involved the installation of a video management system and a new access control system.

Ms Wilson said the $2.75 million project was completed on time and within budget.

The new control room is secure, houses equipment and provides a good working environment for staff. The old control room will be retained for training and as a backup for emergencies.

The video management system replaces old cameras and adds extra surveillance in areas of strategic importance.

‘We now have 108 cameras providing video coverage of the buildings’ approaches and entrances,’ she said. ‘The state-of-the-art system allows simultaneous live viewing and playback of recorded events.’

The access control system is linked to 294 doors throughout the complex, enabling security to control and monitor the movement of people. The system controlls six automated gates and monitors 17 lifts, 1,820 security alarms and 1,425 fire alarms. It is also connected to the disaster recovery system.

‘During busy periods, the system will process more than one transaction per second. On an average working day, it will handle 43,250 inputs,’ she said.

‘The security of Members, visitors and staff is of paramount importance. This project utilises state-of-the-art technology and equipment to improve the safety and security of all who enter the Parliamentary precincts.’
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