From July 1 next year, stronger laws to protect personal information of Western Australians will come into effect, but the responsible sharing of government data will still be allowed.
A range of powers, including the ability to consider and resolve privacy complaints, will be shared between an independent information commissioner, a privacy deputy commissioner and an information access deputy commissioner.
Privacy and technology expert Annelies Moens has been appointed the role of the information commissioner beginning this month, giving the public sector 12 months of preparation before the new legislation is enforced.
Attorney General and member for Armadale Tony Buti said privacy protection measures are essential.
“Privacy protections are becoming more important than ever as technology, such as artificial intelligence, becomes increasingly integrated into our everyday lives,” he said.
“The new laws position our State as a privacy leader in Australia, introducing unique protections around automated decision-making and protecting de-identified information.
“The government is committed to protecting the personal information of all Western Australians and the new independent privacy regulator will guarantee ongoing compliance.”
The legislation will be the first of its nature across Australia and will establish a chief data officer to lead and develop the public sector capability to ensure responsible and secure data sharing in line with the best international practice.
As part of the National Closing the Gap agreement, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations will have secure access to shared data.
Science and innovation minister Stephen Dawson said a balance of privacy protection and flow of government data was important.
“This legislation balances the public interests in protecting privacy with the safe flow of government data,” he said.
“Enabling the sharing of government-held information with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations is a vital step toward Aboriginal people accessing and using data for their needs.
“These new laws will unlock valuable information to improve outcomes in health, education and planning, while upholding the highest standards of privacy and responsible data sharing.”
An information breach scheme which will require agencies to notify the information commissioner and affected individuals in the case of a serious data breach will be in effect from January 1, 2027.
