Author Archives: alanarnott

A recent parliamentary report, The Future of Work, examines the evolving nature of employment in Australia, driven by technological advancements, demographic shifts, and global economic changes. The report highlights both opportunities and challenges, urging policymakers to adopt proactive measures to ensure workforce resilience. Technological Disruption and Automation Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming industries, …

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The Australian Information Commissioner has called on government agencies to improve information governance when using messaging apps, ensuring compliance with legislative obligations. A recent review of 22 agencies revealed that while messaging apps like Signal and WhatsApp are widely used for official communications, many lack adequate policies addressing privacy, freedom of information (FOI), and recordkeeping …

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The Australian Government has released updated guidance to help telecommunications providers manage security risks associated with 5G networks. This document expands on the 2018 5G Security Guidance while maintaining the government’s existing policy position. It aims to assist critical telecommunications assets—previously known as carriers and nominated service providers—in meeting their regulatory obligations under the Security …

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The UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched investigations into three major social media and video-sharing platforms – TikTok, Reddit, and Imgur – over concerns about their handling of children’s personal data. These probes focus on potential breaches of UK data protection laws, particularly for users aged 13 to 17. The ICO is examining TikTok’s …

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According to the Annual Cyber Threat Report 2023-2024, ransomware was involved in 71% of extortion-related cyber incidents handled by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD). In response, the Cyber Security Act 2024 (Cth) introduces mandatory ransomware payment reporting obligations for businesses, taking effect on 30 May 2025. The new rules apply to businesses operating in Australia with an annual turnover …

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Email remains a critical communication tool for organisations, but its use comes with significant security risks. To mitigate these risks, organisations must develop, implement, and maintain a robust email usage policy. The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) has released guidelines for establishing such a policy to ensure that email systems are used securely and responsibly, protecting …

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The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) serves as Australia’s independent national regulator for privacy and freedom of information. Its mission is to safeguard individuals’ rights to access government-held information while ensuring the protection of their personal data. As the privacy regulator for Australia’s Digital ID System and other identity-related entities, the OAIC plays …

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The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has welcomed the passage of the Scams Prevention Framework Bill in Parliament, marking a significant milestone in the fight against scams. This world-first legislation introduces consistent and enforceable obligations for businesses in key sectors where scammers operate, enhancing protections across the economy. ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe described …

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Australia, alongside 100 other countries, international organisations, civil society, and private sector leaders, has now become a signatory to the AI Action Summit convened in Paris. The Summit sought to address the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI). Recognising AI’s potential to reshape societies, economies, and the planet, participants aligned their efforts with the Paris …

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Australia has taken a significant step forward in safeguarding its digital landscape with the introduction of the Cyber Security Act 2024, the nation’s first standalone cybersecurity law. Passed in November 2024, this landmark legislation aims to address the growing threats posed by cybercrime, ransomware attacks, and vulnerabilities in smart devices. The Act is a key …

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