9 May 2023
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) welcomes additional funding announced in the 2023–24 Federal Budget to protect Australians’ privacy as the office returns to the three-Commissioner model: the Australian Information Commissioner (as agency head), Privacy Commissioner and Freedom of Information Commissioner.
The OAIC will receive an extra $17.8 million in the 2023–24 financial year. Over four years the OAIC will receive $44.3 million to support privacy activities, including work responding to the increased complexity, scale and impact of notifiable data breaches, as reflected in recent large-scale breaches. In addition, $9.2 million is allocated over two years to continue to regulate privacy aspects of the Consumer Data Right, My Health Record and Digital Identity.
“The increased funding to support the OAIC’s regulation across the Australian economy will send a strong message that protection of Australians’ personal information must be a priority for business and government agencies,” Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk said.
“This funding is an important addition to bolster the OAIC’s capacity to regulate in line with community expectations into the future.”
