Australia to enhance privacy laws with new legislation
The legislation is part of a broader strategy to modernise privacy laws, with the government committed to ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to ensure equitable and effective privacy protection.
Australia has introduced the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024, marking a pivotal advancement in addressing privacy concerns within the digital landscape. The landmark legislation establishes stringent penalties for privacy breaches, imposing sentences of up to six years in prison for general offences and up to seven years for doxxing incidents that target protected characteristics.
Furthermore, the bill enhances the enforcement powers of the Australian Information Commissioner, enabling swift action against non-compliance with privacy laws. Restoring the Australian Privacy Commissioner as a standalone position further strengthens the oversight needed to uphold privacy standards nationwide.
In its commitment to modernising privacy laws for the digital age, Australia views the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 as the initial phase of a comprehensive strategy to safeguard citizens’ privacy. The government demonstrates its resolve to hold companies and individuals accountable by significantly increasing maximum penalties for serious privacy breaches.
Additionally, recognising the importance of collaboration, the government will continue to engage with key stakeholders—including industry representatives, small businesses, consumer groups, and the media—to ensure that the approach to privacy protection is equitable and beneficial for both individuals and society.
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