Body scanners get the go-ahead

Parliament has okayed a bill that will see full body scanners installed at all Australian international airports.

The Federal Parliament has passed legislation that will see full body scanners installed at security queues across Australia’s international airports.

The scanners, unlike machines that have proven controversial in the US, display only a generic ‘stick figure’ outline of passengers while highlighting items hidden under clothing.

The federal government flagged plans to roll out the scanners earlier this year following trials at Sydney and Melbourne Airports.

Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said the scanners would be in place by November and will be used beside existing walk-through metal detectors, with passengers required to go through one or the other.

Aside from exemption for certain medical conditions, passengers who refuse to go through the scanners will be barred from flying, Albanese said.