Have you seen the news about Hikvision and Dahua cameras being banned? Are you worried about your current system, or the one you’re going to install, or worried it might cause problems down the track?
Hikvision and Dahua have not been banned in Australia for residential or business use. What has changed is how these brands are regarded by the government, and their use on Department of Defence buildings. Despite this, the recent publicity has created a lot of confusion for everyday customers.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what restrictions are in place, what ‘NDAA-compliant’ means, and how it affects your choice of security systems Melbourne wide. We’ll also look at how you can build a security system that is compliant, from day one.
Are Hikvision and Dahua Actually Banned in Australia?
Let’s address this question head on. No, Hikvision and Dahua cameras are not legally banned in Australia, for general domestic or commercial use. VIP Alarms can freely sell Hikvision security systems and Dahua security cameras Melbourne wide, and you are able to purchase and install either for your home.
Homeowners and private businesses face no fines or penalties for buying or using these two brands for their security.
The Australian Federal Government has removed these brands from defence and commonwealth buildings due to security concerns from their ties to Chinese intelligence laws.
Investigations have found no direct technical proof that the standard units are connected to any spy networks or sharing their data to any Chinese actors. If you are worried about your data, changing your passwords to the network regularly, and making them difficult passwords to crack, will go a long way to guarantee your digital safety.
Why This Question Keeps Coming Up
The confusion surrounding the legality of these brands stems from overlapping international headlines, government procurement policies, and data security debates.
An audit of Australian Government sites in 2023 revealed over 900 Hikvision and Dahua devices operating at more than 250 locations, including defence properties.
The United States of America banned these manufacturers from federal procurement under Section 889 of the National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA). New equipment is also restricted through the FCC. Canada and the United Kingdom have also restricted the use of these two brands for security monitoring on government and defence installations.
The issue is that both Hikvision and Dahua are partially owned by the Chinese State. This means they are subject to Chinese Intelligence law which can compel data handover.
Both brands were also in the cybersecurity news reels due to occasional firmware flaws. Both brands worked quickly to patch these issues, but it just added to the bad press already received.
What “NDAA-Compliant” Actually Means
The NDAA act, section 889, bans US government bodies, or contractors, from using equipment from specific blacklisted companies, such as Hikvision and Dahua. This blacklist also specifically names Huawei, Hytera and ZTE.
To be NDAA-Compliant, in the case of security cameras, the hardware, core processors and software must be entirely sourced from non-prohibited companies. This means nothing can be sourced from those black-listed Chinese companies.
Why should this matter in Australia?
Australia has no direct equivalent to Section 889, and that is a wholly American judgement. But, many critical infrastructure providers, and local councils in Australia, voluntarily adopt the NDAA compliance as a procurement benchmark.
Who Should Actually Be Concerned
There are three main categories of use with these two brands of security cameras and security systems, and the concerns differ for each category.
Federal Government and Sensitive Infrastructure
The federal government removed Hikvision and Dahua hardware from their federal buildings and high-security locations. The South Australian Health Department had previously done the same from their sensitive buildings.
Critical asset operators face strict internal pressure to do the same and transition to NDAA-compliant alternatives.
The reasons for this are concerns over Chinese intelligence laws that can compel manufacturers to surrender data or to allow remote access to state entities. Since the Chinese government has a small stake in both brands, this makes them part state-entities. This means the Chinese government could request remote access to view live data from cameras of these two brands.
Private Businesses and Commercial Landlords
Private companies can buy and install Hikvision and Dahua without penalty. However, many businesses, particularly financial businesses and commercial interests, adhere to the NDAA-compliance, and often use non-Chinese suppliers for security measures.
Homeowners
Homeowners face no penalty for installing Hikvision or Dahua cameras. In fact, they are best-sellers thanks to their price point and the quality of imaging you get for that price.
The main security risks homeowners face from security cameras is lax cybersecurity, such as passwords that are easy to crack, forwarding data to the internet the wrong way. Often it is user error, not government hacking, that is the real problem for domestic users of these brands.
NDAA-Compliant Options from VIP Alarms
VIP Security (VIP Alarms) offers fully installed, NDAA-compliant CCTV packages starting at $1,450, featuring vetted hardware like TP-Link VIGI systems. These solutions ensure supply-chain security and safe operation for sensitive commercial or government environments.
Available Options & Features
- > TP-Link VIGI Packages: High-performance, fully vetted surveillance options providing safe hardware for sensitive locations.
- > Pricing: Vetted NDAA-compliant CCTV installations are available fully installed starting from $1,450.
- > Core Capabilities: High-definition imaging, smart motion analytics, and reliable night vision configurations.
Choosing the Right System for Your Property
For most homes and businesses looking at security systems Melbourne wide, Hikvision and Dahua remain solid, well-supported choices, and there’s nothing stopping you from installing either one. If your property falls into a category where NDAA compliance matters, such as government contracts, tenders, or sites with stricter procurement requirements, TP-Link VIGI and LA VISION give you that assurance without compromising on picture quality or features.
The right call comes down to your property, your industry, and what gives you peace of mind. Our team can talk you through the options and recommend a system that actually suits your situation, rather than just upselling the newest brand on the shelf.
Get in touch with VIP Security on 1300 130 115 or request a quote online, and we’ll help you find the right fit.
FAQs
What areas does VIP Security service?
VIP Security services homes and businesses across Melbourne, including suburbs from Berwick and Frankston in the south east to Melton and Werribee in the west.
What brands of security cameras do you install?
We install Hikvision, Dahua, HiLook, TP-Link VIGI, and LA VISION camera systems, covering a range of budgets and compliance requirements.
What alarm systems do you offer?
We supply and install Bosch, Paradox, and Hikvision alarm systems, tailored to suit homes, businesses, warehouses, and construction sites.
How much does a CCTV system cost?
CCTV security camera systems start from $1,450, with packages varying depending on the number of cameras, resolution, and features you need.
How much does a home alarm system cost?
Bosch home security alarms start from $795, fully installed by our qualified technicians.
Can I monitor my alarm system remotely?
Yes. Bosch’s Remote Security Control Plus (RSC+) app lets you receive push notifications and manage your panel from your phone on iOS or Android, though it requires an optional communications extension module.
Do you install security systems for businesses, not just homes?
Yes. We install systems for warehouses, construction sites, pubs and clubs, gyms and sport centres, and general business premises, in addition to residential properties.
How long has VIP Security been operating?
VIP Security has been servicing Victorians for over 30 years as a genuine Australian owned family business.
Do you offer IP intercom and doorbell systems?
Yes. We install HiLook, Dahua, and Akuvox doorbell and IP intercom systems for Melbourne homes.
How do I get a quote?
You can call us on 1300 130 115 or request a quote through our contact page, and our team will assess your property and recommend the right system for your needs.
