The research consisted of 34 in-depth semistructured interviews with persons involved in the daily operation and management of CCTV systems. Participants were mostly local government representatives, but interviews were also conducted with police personnel who were regularly involved with CCTV. Field visits to seven Australian locations were also conducted, along with reviews of system documentation. Two broad models of CCTV monitoring were distinguished: "active" monitoring, which involves systematic use of the camera system to conduct dedicated "patrols," and "passive" monitoring, which involves a casual observation of monitors as they display a preset camera tour. CCTV monitoring can be done by one or more of four types of personnel: local council staff, private security personnel, police, and volunteers. The private security model is currently the most common in Australia. This can involve significant expense and a possible loss of control over operators. The article concludes that the use of council and private security operators still offers superior accountability and administrative control for local governments. Greater professionalism in operator training and effective operator management are required to ensure the accountability and operational effectiveness of Australia's open-street CCTV systems. 1 table and 44 notes