OAIC releases new privacy guidelines for AI development in Australia

The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) has released new guidance clarifying how the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) applies to organisations developing and using generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The move comes amid growing public concern about how personal information is being used to train AI models. The guidance outlines clear boundaries for appropriate …

Australia strengthens critical infrastructure protection with new cybersecurity Bill

The Australian government is set to enhance its critical infrastructure protection through the Security of Critical Infrastructure and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 (Cth) (Bill). This comprehensive reform package introduces significant changes to strengthen cybersecurity measures and expand regulatory oversight. A key feature of the Bill is the broadened definition of critical infrastructure assets to …

AI-generated evidence rocks Australian court

The case of Handa & Mallick [2024] FedCFamC2F 957 (19 July 2024) in the Federal Circuit and Family Court case has sparked controversy in Australia’s legal community after a lawyer submitted fabricated case authorities generated by artificial intelligence (AI). The incident came to light when Justice James Turnbull grew suspicious of citations he couldn’t locate …

Treasury reviews AI and consumer law

The Australian Treasury has launched a significant review of how the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) applies to artificial intelligence (AI) enabled products and services, releasing a discussion paper this month that seeks stakeholder input on crucial consumer protection issues in the AI era. This initiative follows the Department of Industry’s broader examination of AI safety …

KPMG Australia achieves world-first ISO 42001 (AI) Certification

In a groundbreaking achievement, KPMG Australia has become the first organisation globally to receive ISO 42001 (AI) certification from BSI Australia. This certification marks a significant milestone in the responsible management and implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies. ISO 42001, released in December 2023, is the world’s first international standard for AI management systems. It …

Australia imposes cyber sanctions on Russian cybercriminals

In a coordinated effort with the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US), Australia has imposed targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on three Russian citizens for their involvement in the notorious cybercrime group, Evil Corp. This marks the third use of Australia’s autonomous cyber sanctions framework, demonstrating the country’s commitment to combating malicious …

Australia Launches Code for Online Dating Safety

In an era where digital connections often precede face-to-face meetings, online dating has become a popular way Australians meet potential partners. While many may have found meaningful relationships through platforms like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge, a disturbing trend has emerged. According to the Australian Institute of Criminology, three-quarters of Australian dating app users have experienced …

Announcement of Australia’s new Cyber Security legislation

In a significant move to combat rising cyber threats, the Albanese government has introduced Australia’s first standalone cyber security legislation to parliament. The proposed Act aims to fortify the nation’s digital defences amid an alarming surge in cyber incidents, which have increased by 23% in the past financial year–equating to one attack every six minutes. …

Department of Industry, Science and Resources releases their Voluntary AI Safety Standard

Australia has unveiled a comprehensive Voluntary AI Safety Standard as part of its broader Safe and Responsible AI agenda. This initiative aims to provide practical guidance for organisations developing and deploying artificial intelligence (AI) systems while balancing innovation with safety concerns. The standard introduces 10 voluntary guardrails applicable across the AI supply chain, focusing primarily …

Treasury unveils new Scams Prevention Framework

In response to the escalating scam crisis that cost Australians $2.7 billion in 2023, the government has unveiled a comprehensive Scams Prevention Framework. This economy-wide reform aims to protect the Australian community from increasingly sophisticated scams that exploit the digital economy. The framework, primarily amending the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, introduces strong obligations across …