Australia has taken a significant step forward in modernising its privacy laws with the passage of the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024. The legislation, which cleared both Houses of Parliament in late November, introduces several groundbreaking changes to protect individuals’ privacy in the digital age. One of the most notable reforms is the …
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Australia Mandates Disclosure of Cyber Ransom Payments in New Law
In a significant move to combat cybercrime, Australia is set to introduce the Cyber Security Act, requiring businesses to disclose ransom payments made to hackers. The landmark legislation aims to shed light on a growing practice that has largely remained hidden from public view. Recent data from the Australian Cyber Security Centre reveals cyber incidents …
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Human Rights Law Centre submits inquiry on misinformation reform
A new report by the Human Rights Law Centre is calling for urgent government intervention to combat the growing menace of misinformation and disinformation on digital platforms. The Rights-First: Principles for Digital Platform Regulation report highlights the critical need for robust oversight of tech giants like Meta, X, and TikTok, which currently operate with minimal …
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First international AI Ethics Framework opens for signature
In a landmark move for technological governance, the Council of Europe has introduced the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law – the first international treaty addressing AI ethics and regulation. Launched in September 2024, this convention follows the EU AI Act and aims to establish a global …
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Australia introduces world-first social media age restrictions
The Australian Government has unveiled groundbreaking legislation that will set a minimum age requirement of 16 years for social media use, marking a significant shift in digital policy aimed at protecting young people online. The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 places the responsibility squarely on social media platforms to prevent users …
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OAIC issues new guidance on website tracking pixels and privacy compliance
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) has released new guidance for private sector organisations on the use of third-party tracking pixels, responding to growing concerns about online privacy and surveillance. The guidance aims to help businesses navigate their obligations under the Privacy Act while using these digital marketing tools. Recent findings from the …
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China’s new data security regulations
China has unveiled its latest Network Data Security Management Regulations, set to take effect on 1 January 1 2025. The Regulations mark a significant shift from earlier more restrictive approaches to data security, particularly regarding the classification of ‘Important Data’. The new Regulations adopt a more business-friendly stance while maintaining necessary security measures. A key …
Victorian Court recognises new privacy rights in landmark ruling
In a groundbreaking decision, the Victorian County Court has recognised a distinct cause of action for invasion of privacy in Australian common law. The ruling in WALLLER Lynn (A Pseudonym) v BARRETT Romy (A Pseudonym) [2024] VCC 962 marks a significant shift in how Australian courts protect individual privacy rights. Judge Tran’s decision emerged from …
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Government unveils $50M penalties to combat social media scams
The Australian federal government has announced sweeping new legislation aimed at protecting citizens from online scams. The legislation proposes fines of up to $50 million for social media platforms, telecommunications companies, and banks that fail to act against fraudulent activities. Under the new Scam Code Act, these organisations will be required to report scams immediately …
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Department of Industry, Science and Resources announces AI Impact Navigator
In response to the growing need for responsible artificial intelligence (AI) implementation, a new framework called the AI Impact Navigator has been introduced by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources to help organisations assess and report on their AI systems’ actual impact. Unlike existing frameworks that focus primarily on internal governance, this tool provides …
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