Law Council of Australia releases Digital ID Framework

Australia is on the cusp of a digital revolution with the proposed Digital ID scheme, aimed at streamlining identity verification across various services. However, as the Law Council of Australia emphasises in its recent submission, this innovation must be carefully balanced with robust privacy protections and cybersecurity measures. The Draft Digital ID Rules, Accreditation Rules, …

Australia and US reaffirm alliance to strengthen cybersecurity measures, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region

The recent Australia-US Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) 2024 highlighted an increased focus on cybersecurity and information technology cooperation between the two allies. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the United States and Australia have committed to strengthening their joint efforts to combat malicious cyber activities. A key development is Australia’s endorsement of the United States’ Framework …

Commonwealth Bank pioneers new anti-scam intelligence sharing initiative

To address the recent increase in financial scams, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has become the first bank to integrate a new anti-scam intelligence loop. This innovative system, co-designed by the Australian Financial Crimes Exchange (AFCX) and National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC), marks a significant step towards a more collaborative approach to fighting fraud across …

Three new cybersecurity risk mitigation Directions released for the Protective Security Policy Framework

Three new Directions have been released by the Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs for the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF). The PSPF is designed for the Australian Government to safeguard people, information and assets. The three Directions specifically apply to the management and mitigation of cybersecurity risks to the Australian Government: Direction 001-2024 …

New guidelines for Information Commissioner reviews in Australia

The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) has released updated procedures for applicants seeking Information Commissioner (IC) reviews under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth). These guidelines aim to streamline the review process and promote efficiency in handling Freedom of Information (FOI) disputes. Key changes include a new online application form and specific …

Artificial Intelligence Act published in European Union Official Journal

In a landmark move, the European Union (EU) has introduced the EU Artificial Intelligence Act. This new legislation aims to position the EU as a global leader in human-centric, trustworthy artificial intelligence (AI) development and deployment. The AI Act takes a risk-based approach, categorising AI systems into four levels: unacceptable, high, limited, and low risk. …

Australian unveils National Framework for AI Assurance in Government

The Australian government, in collaboration with state and territory governments, has released a novel National Framework for the Assurance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Government. This landmark document aims to establish a consistent approach for the safe and responsible use of AI across all levels of government in Australia. The framework is built upon Australia’s …

EU Commission investigates against Apple for potential Digital Markets Act violations

The European Commission has intensified its scrutiny of Apple’s App Store practices, citing potential violations of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). In a significant move, the Commission has informed Apple of its preliminary view that the company’s App Store rules breach the DMA by preventing app developers from freely steering consumers to alternative channels for …

Judge suggests cryptocurrency should be considered property under Australian common law

In a recent speech, Justice Jackman of the Federal Court of Australia provided a compelling argument for recognising cryptocurrency as property under Australian common law. This perspective challenges traditional notions of property and adapts legal principles to the digital age. The core of Justice Jackman’s argument rests on the versatile nature of property in Australian …

Australian Signals Directorate provides quarterly update for Information Security Manual

The Australian Signals Directorate has provided its quarterly update for the Information Security Manual (ISM). This latest revision reflects the ever-evolving landscape of modern digital threats and the need for robust security measures. Compliance with the ISM is encouraged albeit voluntary. The ASD identified several notable new controls that have been added in this edition, …