We take part in a wide range of speaking engagements and other events.

Upcoming events

  • 3–4 April 2024 – IAPP Global Privacy Summit – Australian Information Commissioner Angelene Falk and Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind will speak at the summit in Washington, DC. Commissioner Falk will be on a panel about global data protection authorities’ efforts to elevate safeguards against data scraping. Commissioner Kind will be on a panel as part of the opening general session focused on AI, including intersections with privacy, international developments and approaches to regulation and governance.
  • 6–12 May 2024 – Privacy Awareness Week (PAW) – PAW is our annual event to raise awareness of privacy issues and the importance of protecting personal information. For our campaign this year, we are asking people, organisations and government agencies to ‘power up your privacy’.
2024

March

15 MarchAssociation of Information Access Commissioners (AIAC) meetingAustralian Information Commissioner Angelene Falk and Freedom of Information Commissioner Elizabeth Tydd attended the AIAC meeting, hosted by the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner. The AIAC comprises information access authorities across Australia and New Zealand who administer freedom of information legislation. AIAC members meet twice a year to share knowledge and upcoming projects.
13 MarchMedical Insurance Group Australia Risk Management Conference

Director Stephanie Otorepec participated in a panel discussion about privacy law in healthcare, which covered the privacy risks and responsibilities for health service providers in Australia.

7 March Australian Data and Insights Association (ADIA) Leaders Forum

Australian Information Commissioner Angelene Falk was a keynote speaker. In a fireside conversation, she discussed the impending changes to Australia's privacy laws and how the proposals will affect ADIA member organisations and the broader industry.

February

22 FebruaryThe Mandarin Rebuilding Trust and Integrity in the Australian Public Service conferenceFreedom of Information Commissioner Elizabeth Tydd was a keynote speaker. She shared insights into the fundamental benefits of strengthening information access for Australians and how public sector leaders can play a role in advancing this objective.
15 FebruaryClyde & Co One Cyber Summit

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk was a keynote speaker. In a fireside conversation, she covered the OAIC’s regulatory priorities, lessons learned from 6 years of the Notifiable Data Breaches scheme, privacy law reform, the cyber security landscape and how good privacy and cyber security practices are mutually reinforcing.

9 February Meeting on state of artificial intelligence regulations, policies and upcoming challenges

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk spoke about regulatory challenges with artificial intelligence (AI). The meeting was organised by the Italian Data Protection Authority and the Privacy Symposium and brought together global data protection authorities, industry and AI experts and researchers to discuss AI developments, opportunities, challenges, government policy and regulation.

2023

December

1 December Centre for Information Policy Leadership  ‘Cracking the AI code: Insights, privacy and industry outlook’

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk made the opening and closing remarks.

30 November–1 December60th Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities forum (APPA 60)

The OAIC hosted privacy and data protection authorities from across the Asia Pacific region in Sydney for APPA 60. APPA members discussed common privacy issues, regulatory experiences and enforcement challenges. It was also a chance for members to build relationships with the goal of enhancing regulatory cooperation in the Asia Pacific region. Read the meeting summary.

November

28 November IAPP ANZ Summit

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk was a keynote speaker. In a fireside conversation with an IAPP board member, the Commissioner discussed the OAIC’s achievements in 2023 and what’s ahead in 2024, including privacy law reform and a stronger enforcement focus.

8 November Privacy Authorities Australia (PAA) meeting The OAIC attended the PAA meeting, hosted by the Office of the Information Commissioner Queensland. PAA meets twice a year and is a forum for the OAIC and state and territory privacy regulators to provide updates on significant developments in their jurisdictions and discuss emerging privacy issues.
3 November Association of Information Access Commissioners (AIAC) meeting The AIAC comprises information access authorities across Australia and New Zealand who administer freedom of information legislation. AIAC members meet twice a year to share knowledge and upcoming projects. The November AIAC meeting was hosted by the Office of the Information Commissioner Western Australia. Read the meeting communique.
2 November FOI in WA Conference Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk spoke on the panel 'Being an open government in the digital age – a cross-jurisdictional discussion' alongside NSW Information Commissioner Elizabeth Tydd, New Zealand Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier and Commonwealth Ombudsman Iain Anderson. The conference was organised by the Office of the Information Commissioner Western Australia.

October

31 October Australian Government Solicitor FOI and Privacy Law Conference Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk gave a keynote address. Her address covered community attitudes to privacy and access to information, the review of the Privacy Act 1988 and the importance of an open by design culture and digital inclusion.
17 October King & Wood Mallesons Digital Future Summit

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk took part in the ‘regulatory perspectives’ session. The Commissioner discussed in a conversation with a King & Wood Mallesons partner:

  • the Australian Government’s response to the Privacy Act review
  • key findings of our 2023 Australian Community Attitudes to Privacy Survey
  • our priorities and expectations with regard to organisations’ compliance with the Notifiable Data Breaches scheme
  • our regulatory focus on online platforms, social media and technologies that have a high impact on privacy.
12 October Information Publication Scheme (IPS) review information workshop The OAIC held an information workshop for freedom of information contact officers to learn and ask questions about the IPS review survey.

September

26 September KPMG Board Leadership Centre Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk was the guest speaker for a privacy and data governance webinar.
21 September Information Publication Scheme (IPS) review information workshop The OAIC held an information workshop for freedom of information contact officers to learn and ask questions about the IPS review survey.

August

13 August Australian Communications Consumer Action Network Communications Consumer Congress

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk was a keynote speaker. Her keynote address covered the findings of our Australian Community Attitudes to Privacy Survey, the OAIC’s privacy regulatory priorities and how the reform of the Privacy Act will strengthen privacy protections.

6 August

Wotton + Kearney Cyber and Technology Symposium

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk took part in a panel discussion around privacy.

July

25 JulyThe Australian Financial Review Government Services Summit Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk spoke on a cyber security panel. She was joined by Department of Home Affairs Secretary Michael Pezzullo and Australian Cyber Security Centre Head Abigail Bradshaw. Among the topics discussed were the role of cyber security in building trust in government, mitigating cyber threats and how the government and regulators are coordinating on cyber security issues.
6 July

OAIC FOIstats information session

We held an online information session for agencies to assist with completing their quarterly and annual statistical returns. For more information about freedom of information (FOI) statistical returns, read our FOIstats guide.

June

19–21 June International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC)

The 14th edition of the ICIC was hosted by the Freedom of Information Project Office Philippines. We submitted the Oceania report on behalf of the OAIC and state and territory authorities and supported the NSW Information Commissioner in presenting the report to attendees.

5–6 June 59th Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities (APPA) Forum

APPA 59 was hosted by the National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information and Personal Data Protection of Mexico. Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk presented our jurisdiction update and members discussed common privacy issues, regulatory experiences and enforcement challenges. Attendees also shared their knowledge and experiences and continued to build relationships with a view towards enhanced regional cooperation. For more information, read the forum communique.

2 June

Association of Information Access Commissioners (AIAC) meeting

We hosted the AIAC meeting. The AIAC comprises information access authorities across Australia and New Zealand who administer freedom of information legislation. Members meet twice a year to share knowledge and upcoming projects. For more information, read the meeting communique.

1 June Privacy Authorities Australia (PAA) meeting We attended the PAA meeting, hosted by the Information and Privacy Commission New South Wales. PAA meets twice a year and is a forum for the OAIC and state and territory privacy regulators to provide updates on significant developments in their jurisdictions and discuss emerging privacy issues.

May

24 May

Energy Retailer Consumer Data Right (CDR) Readiness Workshop

Director, CDR Policy Zoe Fitzell presented on the role of the OAIC and the CDR privacy safeguards at this workshop hosted by the ACCC. The aim of the workshop was to help the next tranche of energy retailers prepare for the commencement of their consumer data sharing obligations in November 2023.

17 May Australian Government Data Forum Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk took part in a panel discussion on cyber security and data. She was joined on the panel by National Data Commissioner Gayle Milnes, Deputy Statistician Teresa Dickinson and Australian National University Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt. The forum aimed to encourage graduates and new starters in the Australian Public Service (APS) to build their data literacy skills. It was jointly organised by the Office of the National Data Commissioner, Graduate Data Network, Australian Bureau of Statistics, APS Data Profession and the ACT arm of the Institute of Public Administration Australia.
3 May Commissioners talk privacy panel event Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk and the Victorian, NSW and Queensland privacy commissioners discussed key issues and developments in privacy, including data breaches, the over-collection of personal information, the review of the Privacy Act and NSW’s new mandatory data breach notification scheme. Watch the recording of the event, which was hosted by the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner.
3 May IDCARE Privacy Awareness Week panel discussion Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk joined the NSW and Queensland privacy commissioners for an in-person breakfast event looking at contemporary issues confronting privacy practice today and its trajectory into the future.
1 May IAPP ANZ Delegate Tour  Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk gave a keynote address to mark the commencement of Privacy Awareness Week. A recording of the keynote will be available on our website soon after the event. See the recording and transcript.

April

18 April Senate Economics Legislation Committee inquiry into the Treasury Laws Amendment (Consumer Data Right) Bill 2022 provisions

Deputy Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton and Acting Assistant Commissioner, Regulation and Strategy, Andre Castaldi, appeared alongside witnesses from the Treasury and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to discuss the potential expansion of Consumer Data Right to include action initiation, including the OAIC’s role in regulating the privacy aspects of the framework.

5 April

Law Council privacy law and practice seminar

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk joined the Law Council of Australia’s Business Law Section for a seminar on key privacy developments, including the final report of the Privacy Act review. Watch the recording of the seminar.

March

15 March

International Institute of Communications Australian Chapter Digital Platform Regulators Forum event

Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk took part in a panel discussion on the work of the Digital Platform Regulators Forum. She was joined by ACCC Chair Gina Cass‑Gottlieb, Australian Communications and Media Authority Chair Nerida O’Loughlin PSM and eSafety Acting Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Toby Dagg. The 4 regulators discussed ongoing collaboration on the regulation of digital platforms and future opportunities for reform.
14 March Accounting Business Expo Members of our Notifiable Data Breaches team presented on the implications of data breaches for accountants.
8 March Shadow Economy Advisory Forum Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk presented on data breaches. The forum collaborates with key industry and business stakeholders to lead, share and advocate matters relating to the shadow economy. Key messages are published on the Australian Taxation Office website.
1 March MinterEllison CPD Legal Studio 2023 Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk spoke on a panel discussion on proactive cyber defences and what to do when faced with a cyber threat and breach. Watch the recording.

February

21 February Privacy, information and cyber security for digital mental health services webinar Director, Health and Government, Diana Weston presented at the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) webinar on Privacy, information and cyber security. The webinar brought together a panel of experts to explain how to implement the privacy actions in the Digital Mental Health Standards, develop an effective information security management system and mitigate cyber risks and threats. Diana explained how Australia’s privacy laws and regulations apply to digital mental health services and the importance of privacy in building trust with clients and the broader community. Watch the webinar on the ACSQHC website.

2022

December

7–8  December Association of Information  Access Commissioners (AIAC) meeting Various members of the OAIC Executive will attend the AIAC meeting, to be hosted by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of New Zealand. AIAC members meet twice a year to share knowledge and upcoming projects.
6 December Public Sector AI and Data Showcase Deputy Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton participated in a panel discussion on ethical considerations for artificial intelligence.
1 December Australian Government Solicitor FOI Update Freedom of Information Commissioner Leo Hardiman PSM KC presented at the FOI Update, which celebrated 40 years of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 with the theme ‘looking forward, looking back’.

November

30 NovemberBiometrics Institute Australia Discussion DayAustralian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk delivered a keynote address titled 'Trust in biometrics needs privacy as the foundation'.
29–30 November58th Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities (APPA) ForumAPPA is held twice a year and brings together data protection authorities across the Asia Pacific region to share information on policy, enforcement and compliance matters. Deputy Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton gave our jurisdiction update and spoke on recent data breaches, as well as participating in discussions around privacy in the pandemic and children’s privacy. Acting Assistant Commissioner, Regulation and Strategy, Sarah Ghali presented on the OAIC’s co‑leadership of the Global Privacy Assembly’s Digital Citizen and Consumer Working Group.
23 NovemberIAPP ANZ Summit 2022Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk participated in a fireside conversation to launch the event. The conversation traversed the OAIC's achievements in 2022, privacy law reform and what's ahead in 2023. Acting Assistant Commissioner, Regulation and Strategy, Sarah Ghali, participated in a panel discussion on the Privacy Legislation Amendment (Enforcement and Other Measures) Bill 2022 and review of the Privacy Act 1988.
18 November35th LAWASIA ConferenceAustralian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk delivered a plenary address on the role of information management in maintaining human rights and the rule of law. The Commissioner's address covered how human rights is an important quality in both protecting privacy and supporting information access.
17 NovemberLegal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation CommitteeAustralian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk and Acting Assistant Commissioner, Regulation and Strategy, Sarah Ghali, appeared publicly as part of the inquiry into the Privacy Legislation Amendment (Enforcement and Other Measures) Bill 2022. Read Commissioner Falk's opening statement.
14 NovemberKing & Wood Mallesons Digital Future SummitAustralian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk provided the OAIC’s regulatory perspective on the ever-evolving digital landscape. Read the Commissioner's opening remarks.
8–9 NovemberOpen Government and Right to Information Workshop for NiueThe OAIC presented on freedom of information and the Australian Government as part of an open government and right to information workshop for Niue. The workshop was organised by the United Nations Development Programme’s United Nations Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption Project.
3 NovemberMedical Software Industry Association Summit 2022Acting Assistant Commissioner, Regulation and Strategy, Andre Castaldi presented on health technology and the importance of building trust through privacy.

October

25–28 October44th Global Privacy Assembly (GPA)Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk and the director of our Law Reform and Digital Platforms section attended the 44th GPA in Istanbul, hosted by the Turkish Personal Data Protection Authority, KVKK. The theme of the assembly is ‘A matter of balance: privacy in the era of rapid technological advancement’. Commissioner Falk presented on the work of the GPA's Strategic Direction Sub-committee, took part in a panel discussion on privacy concerns in facial recognition technology, and chaired a side event in which GPA working groups presented their achievements over the past year.
11 OctoberGRC2022 ConferenceDirector, Privacy Determinations Cate Cloudsdale presented on the OAIC’s regulatory priorities, determinations practice and recent determinations.

September

28 SeptemberInformation Contact Officers Network (ICON) sessionThe OAIC hosted a livestreamed event for ICON members for International Access to Information Day. The event featured Attorney-General and Cabinet Secretary, the Honourable Mark Dreyfus KC MP, Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk, Freedom of Information Commissioner Leo Hardiman PSM KC and National Archives of Australia Director-General Simon Froude. Watch the Attorney-General's speech and view the speaking notes.
14 SeptemberLatest trends in data breaches: incident management and preventionAssistant Commissioner, Dispute Resolution, David Stevens presented on trends, insights and emerging themes from the Notifiable Data Breaches scheme at this InfoGovANZ webinar.
1 SeptemberTrans-Tasman Business Circle Meet the Regulator SeriesAustralian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk was the guest speaker.

August

12 AugustInnovate Australia 2022Deputy Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton took part in a panel discussion on putting citizens’ needs at the centre of government services. The panel discussed the importance of government services being simple, helpful, respectful and transparent. Deputy Commissioner Hampton highlighted how the OAIC's work as the privacy and FOI regulator supports this.

July

29 JulyAustralian Government Solicitor (AGS) FOI and Privacy Practitioners UpdateFreedom of Information Commissioner Leo Hardiman PSM QC presented on the OAIC’s work, his observations of the FOI landscape and opportunities to improve access to information. Read Commissioner Hardiman's speech.
27 JulyPrivacy Authorities Australia meetingThe OAIC hosted the Privacy Authorities Australia (PAA) meeting. PAA meets twice a year and is a forum for the OAIC and state and territory privacy regulators to provide updates on significant developments in their jurisdictions and discuss emerging privacy issues.
26 JulyThe Australian Financial Review Government Services Summit 2022Commissioner Angelene Falk spoke on a panel on privacy, data management and data for good policy.
21 JulyCentre for Information Policy Leadership and Singapore Personal Protection Commission RoundtableCommissioner Falk participated in the roundtable discussion on 'organisational accountability: effective implementation, contextual application and regulatory expectation'.
12–13 July57th Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities ForumVarious members of the OAIC Executive attended APPA 57, hosted by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, Hong Kong, China. Commissioner Falk took part in a panel discussion on privacy issues arising from emerging technologies and the regulatory response.

June

24 JuneSOPACActing Assistant Commissioner, Regulation and Strategy, Andre Castaldi, presented on ensuring adherence to the Privacy Act 1988 at the Institute of Internal Auditors Australia’s annual conference.
23 JuneDeloitte Australia Privacy Index 2022 launchCommissioner Angelene Falk delivered the opening address. Read the Commissioner's speech.
23 June13th International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC)Commissioner Angelene Falk participated in a panel on ‘Transparency by design as an effective means to promote and increase transparency’ and provided a jurisdictional update on information access developments in the Oceania region. The 13th ICIC was hosted by the National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information and Personal Data Protection of Mexico (INAI).
17 JuneEDPS ConferenceCommissioner Angelene Falk participated in a panel discussion on the path to coherent enforcement in the digital ecosystem.
8 JuneLegal literacy, National Security CollegeDeputy Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton co-presented on 'Rights, Privacy, Proportionality: different perspective'.

May

5 MayCyberCX Privacy by Design Awards DinnerCommissioner Angelene Falk delivered a keynote address on organisational accountability and building consumer trust and confidence through privacy by design.
5 MayJoint Cyber Security Centre Privacy Awareness Week presentationThe director of the OAIC's Systems and Security section presented to Australian Cyber Security Centre partners for Privacy Awareness Week.
4 MayGetting a clear view: take aways from recent OAIC determinationsAssistant Commissioner, Dispute Resolution, David Stevens provided an overview of the OAIC's strategic priorities and recent Commissioner-initiated investigations and determinations as part of Salinger Privacy's webinar to mark Privacy Awareness Week. Watch the recording.
2 MayPrivacy Awareness Week launchCommissioner Falk gave a keynote address to launch Privacy Awareness Week – watch the recording. She was then joined by Jane Horvath, Chief Privacy Officer, Apple, Rebecca Skinner PSM, Chief Executive Officer, Services Australia and Erin Turner, Chief Executive Officer, Consumer Policy Research Centre, for a discussion about the role of privacy in building trust.

April

29 AprilAustralian Bar Association Re-emerge 2022Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk spoke on a panel about data protection and barristers’ legal and ethical obligations to protect client information.
26 AprilDiscussion on Australian and Indian Data Protection RegimesCommissioner Falk presented on the Privacy Act 1988 and the role of the OAIC at an online roundtable event hosted by The Dialogue as India moves closer to enacting its Data Protection Bill. The event was be attended by Indian experts, industry professionals and members of the think tank and research community, civil society and legal profession.
12 AprilAssociation of Information Access Commissioners meetingCommissioner Falk and Acting FOI Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton attended the meeting of the Association of Information Access Commissioners, hosted by the Information and Privacy Commission NSW. Members meet twice a year to share knowledge and upcoming projects. The commissioners presented the OAIC’s jurisdictional update.

March

22 MarchJoint Cyber Security Centre data breaches presentationAssistant Commissioner Stevens presented to Australian Cyber Security Centre partners on trends, insights and emerging themes from 4 years of the Notifiable Data Breaches scheme.
10 MarchLegal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation CommitteeAustralian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk and Acting Assistant Commissioner, Regulation and Strategy, Sarah Ghali, appeared publicly as part of the inquiry into the Privacy Legislation Amendment (Enforcement and Other Measures) Bill 2022. Read Commissioner Falk's opening statement.

January

28 January House Select Committee on Social Media and Online SafetyCommissioner Falk appeared publicly as part of the Inquiry into Social Media and Online Safety. Read the Commissioner’s opening statement.

2021

December

7–13 DecemberAustralian Digital Health Agency webinarsThe OAIC's Assessments team presented on privacy and the My Health Records assessments program at 2 webinars, the first for the Australian Digital Health Agency’s partner health network and affiliates, the second for health service providers.
10 DecemberCentre for Information Policy Leadership monthly member callCommissioner Falk in conversation with the Centre for Information Policy Leadership (CIPL) President Bojana Bellamy about Australian privacy law reform.
7 DecemberJoint Cyber Security Centre data breaches presentationAssistant Commissioner Stevens presented to Australian Cyber Security Centre partners on managing data breaches and their organisations’ obligations under the Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) scheme.
1–3 December56th Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities ForumThe OAIC attended the 56th Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities (APPA) Forum, hosted by the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for British Columbia. Commissioner Falk presented an update on the OAIC’s facial recognition investigations and recent 7-Eleven and Clearview AI determinations. She also moderated a panel discussion on how regulators balance their roles in giving guidance on privacy issues while acting as an impartial enforcement body.
1 DecemberNational HREC ConferenceCommissioner Falk spoke about the role of human research ethics committees (HREC) as the gatekeepers of the privacy of research participants in her opening address for the conference.

November

23 NovemberDepartment of Agriculture, Water and the Environment Transparency Talks information sessionActing FOI Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton presented to the department's Water Division on the role the OAIC plays in ensuring greater access to government-held information and the importance of proactive publication.
15 NovemberAccessing government information in Samoa webinarThe OAIC’s FOI Regulatory Group presented on Australia’s federal freedom of information and information access framework at this webinar hosted by the UN Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption Project.
11 NovemberThe KWM Digital Future SummitCommissioner Falk and Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Chair Rod Sims discussed their regulatory approaches and priorities for the digital environment.
10 NovemberIAPP ANZ Summit Online 2021Commissioner Falk discussed the privacy landscape in 2021 and the outlook ahead with IAPP Country Leader, Australia and National Australia Bank Chief Privacy and Data Ethics Officer Stephen Bolinger. Watch the recording on LinkedIn.
9 NovemberFuture of Financial Services, SydneyThe OAIC’s Consumer Data Right (CDR) policy team presented on the system’s privacy-enhancing features, the interaction between the Privacy Act and the CDR, and the resources available to help participants understand and comply with their privacy obligations.
3 NovemberGlobal Privacy Assembly Digital Citizen and Consumer Working Group webinarAssistant Commissioner, Regulation and Strategy Melanie Drayton chaired this webinar, which focused on the Working Group's recently published academic report, Digital Crossroads: The Intersection of Competition Law and Data Privacy and 27 consisting of interviews with competition authorities from across the globe on their practical experiences with the intersection between privacy and competition.

October

28 OctoberGRC2021 ConferenceCommissioner Falk updated GRC Institute members on the OAIC’s privacy regulatory priorities, recent regulatory action and privacy law reform.
18–21 October43rd Global Privacy AssemblyThe OAIC participated in the 43rd GPA conference, hosted by Mexico’s National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information and Personal Data Protection.

September

27 SeptemberSenate Standing Committees on Finance and Public AdministrationTo mark International Access to Information Day, the OAIC hosted an information session for members of our Information Contact Officers Network (ICON). The session featured a keynote address from Commissioner Falk, a presentation from New Zealand Parliamentary Deputy Ombudsman Bridget Hewson and a discussion on proactive publication and information access through times of heightened activity and significant public scrutiny with Acting FOI Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton and Scott Tredwell, General Counsel the Federal Court of Australia.
27 SeptemberInternational Access to Information Day (ICON) sessionTo mark International Access to Information Day, the OAIC hosted an information session for members of our Information Contact Officers Network (ICON). The session featured a keynote address from Commissioner Falk, a presentation from New Zealand Parliamentary Deputy Ombudsman Bridget Hewson and a discussion on proactive publication and information access through times of heightened activity and significant public scrutiny with Acting FOI Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton and Scott Tredwell, General Counsel the Federal Court of Australia.
9 SeptemberAustralian Banking Association notifiable data breaches (NDB) briefingAssistant Commissioner Stevens presented to Australian Banking Association members on the NDB scheme, including trends in the finance sector.
8 SeptemberAsia-Pacific Economic Cooperation virtual forum: improving cross-border effectiveness of personal data breach notification systemsAssistant Commissioner Stevens presented on the NDB scheme.

August

26 AugustAsia-Pacific Economic Cooperation virtual forum: Digital tools for addressing infectious diseases in the Asia-Pacific region: Challenges and opportunitiesCommissioner Falk presented the work of the OAIC and Global Privacy Assembly to ensure privacy practices remain central to COVID-19 responses.
25 AugustPublic Sector Network Cyber security executive meeting seriesDeputy Commissioner Elizabeth Hampton spoke about developing culture and awareness to improve cyber security and resilience at the Canberra leg of the event series.

July

28 JulyFundraising Institute Australia webinar: Is your data safe? Assistant Commissioner Drayton joined a panel discussion on data privacy and security in the fundraising sector as part of the institute's inaugural Data Week.
27 JulyRisk Management Association webinar: Privacy: One of the most important issues of our timeThe OAIC presented the findings of our Australian Community Attitudes to Privacy Survey 2020.

June

23–24 JuneInternational Conference of Information Commissioner Commissioner Falk and Deputy Commissioner Hampton, accompanied by Principal Director, FOI Regulatory Group Rocelle Ago, presented a resolution on proactive publication and the Australian regional update at the closed session. Hosted by the Brazilian Office of the Comptroller General, the session was an opportunity to share knowledge and best practices from across the world to advance information access rights.
23 JuneAustralian Human Rights Commission webinar: Government of use artificial intelligenceCommissioner Falk participated in a panel discussion on government use of artificial intelligence led by Human Rights Commissioner Edward Santow. She was joined by Disability Discrimination Commissioner Dr Ben Gauntlett and NSW’s Chief Data Scientist Dr Ian Oppermann. The panel was part of a series of events to launch the Human Rights and Technology Final Report.
21 JuneOECD-Global Privacy Assembly workshop: one year later – Addressing the data governance and privacy implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and the road to recoveryDeputy Commissioner Hampton joined a panel discussion on workplace privacy as part of this online workshop. The workshop brought together over 140 OECD and Global Privacy Assembly participants, and stakeholder groups from business, civil society and trade unions to discuss the data governance and privacy implications of the pandemic.
16–18 June55th Asia-Pacific Privacy Authorities ForumThe OAIC participated in the 55th forum hosted by the Personal Information Protection Commission of the Republic of Korea. The forum considered jurisdiction and enforcement updates, the ‘new normal’ post-COVID-19, use of emerging technologies, children’s and adolescents’ privacy, and formulating global standards in data protection. Read the forum’s communiqué.
11 JuneParliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and SecurityDeputy Commissioner Hampton appeared before the public hearing into the review of the Security Legislation Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill 2020 and statutory review of the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018. See the OAIC’s submission.

May

13 MayIAPP Global Privacy Summit 2021Assistant Commissioner Drayton joined a panel discussion on blurred regulatory lines. She spoke alongside Commissioner Noah Joshua Phillips from the US Federal Trade Commission and Deputy Commissioner Brent Homan from the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.
13 MayJoint Cyber Security Centre presentation: Notifiable Data Breaches schemeAlmost 200 Australian Cyber Security Centre partners attended the session to hear from the OAIC about trends and insights from 3 years of the Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) scheme, challenges in responding to data breaches and data breach risk management.
7 MayAustralian Government Solicitor FOI and Privacy ForumCommissioner Falk opened the forum and participated in a panel discussion with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and Attorney-General’s Department on the future of privacy. Read the Commissioner’s speech.
6 MayDeloitte Australian Privacy Index 2021 launch webinarCommissioner Falk spoke at the launch of the Deloitte Australian Privacy Index 2021.
5 MaySalinger Privacy webinar: masterclass in data, privacy and ethicsThe OAIC presented on our Australian Community Attitudes to Privacy Survey. Watch the recording .
3 MayOAIC webinar: making privacy a priority in the decade of dataCommissioner Falk spoke to Elizabeth Denham CBE, UK Information Commissioner and Global Privacy Assembly chair, for the launch of Privacy Awareness Week 2021. Watch the recording.

April

22 AprilInformation Contact Officers Network virtual information sessionCommissioner Falk gave an update on OAIC investigations and findings and addressed common issues raised in freedom of information complaints. More than 100 staff from government agencies joined the Information Contact Officers Network (ICON) event, where they also heard from Deputy Commissioner Hampton on lessons learnt from recent Information Commissioner review decisions.
22 AprilTax Practitioners Board webinar: preventing data breachesMore than 3,000 tax practitioners tuned into a Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) webinar to hear from the TPB and OAIC about preventing data breaches. The webinar covered common sources of data breaches, tax practitioners’ obligations to keep client information safe, and how they can mitigate risk. Watch the webinar.

March

30 MarchAssociation of Corporate Counsel GC100 12th bi-annual meetingIn a live interview with Olga Ganopolsky, General Counsel - Privacy and Data, Macquarie Group, Commissioner Falk discussed emerging privacy issues and challenges, the Privacy Act review and the OAIC's privacy regulatory priorities.
17 MarchUnited Nations Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption session: right to informationThe OAIC took part in a virtual information session on best practices for building resilient, transparent and accountable institutions in the Solomon Islands. The United Nations Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption project partnered with experts from Australia, New Zealand and Vanuatu to facilitate the discussion with Solomon Islands Integrity Institutions and the Office of the Prime Minister.

February

26 FebruaryInternational Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network and Global Privacy Enforcement Network workshop: best practice enforcement of consumer data privacyAssistant Commissioner Drayton facilitated a discussion on enforcement of consumer data privacy.
12 FebruarySelect Committee on Financial Technology and Regulatory TechnologyCommissioner Falk and Deputy Commissioner Hampton appeared before the committee. See the OAIC’s submission.

January

28 JanuaryCouncil of Europe webinar: Data Privacy Day – Asia-Pacific region eventTo mark Data Privacy Day, Commissioner Falk joined the Council of Europe and regulators and academics from across the Asia Pacific to discuss domestic and international privacy developments. Watch the recording.

2020

December

8–10 December54th Asia-Pacific Privacy Authorities ForumThe OAIC joined regulators from across the region for the forum hosted by the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner. Read the forum’s communiqué.

November

24 NovemberInternational Association of Privacy Professionals panel: blurring regulatory lines – privacy, competition and consumer protectionAssistant Commissioner Drayton spoke about the convergence between privacy, competition and consumer regulation. IAPP members can watch the recording .
19 NovemberAustralian Finance Industry Association webinar: Notifiable Data Breaches schemeThe OAIC delivered a presentation on the NDB scheme to Australian Finance Industry Association members. You can register to watch the recording.
12 NovemberLaw Council of Australia: privacy law seminarCommissioner Falk joined the Law Council of Australia’s Business Law Section for a seminar on key privacy developments in 2020. Watch the seminar.
5 NovemberGRC Conference 2020The OAIC presented on the NDB scheme.
4 NovemberICON virtual information sessionThe OAIC hosted an ICON session to conclude our International Access to Information Day campaign. Commissioner Falk, Deputy Commissioner Hampton and our FOI Regulatory Group spoke to ICON members about the latest freedom of information statistics, recent updates and resources, and upcoming projects. Read the Commissioner’s speech.

October

22 OctoberAustralian Finance Industry Association webinar: Consumer Data Right – privacy focusThe OAIC delivered a masterclass for members of the Australian Finance Industry Association on the privacy aspects of the Consumer Data Right. You can register to watch the recording.
22 OctoberVictorian Privacy Network meetingAssistant Commissioner Drayton spoke at the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner’s (OVIC) first virtual Victorian Privacy Network meeting. Privacy professionals tuned in to hear from the OAIC on contact tracing and the broader privacy landscape including the key findings of our Australian Community Attitudes to Privacy Survey. Meeting materials and presentation slides are available on OVIC’s website.
13–15 October42nd Global Privacy Assembly Commissioner Falk, as member of the Executive Committee and chair of the Strategic Direction Sub-Committee, led discussions on the work being done across the Global Privacy Assembly to advance its strategic plan and priorities. The OAIC also authored and sponsored a number of adopted resolutions.

September

28 SeptemberOpen Government Partnership webinar: open by designCommissioner Falk attended the webinar to discuss the draft ‘Open by Design (right to know)’ commitment. Watch the recording.

July

22 JulyAdvancing the right to information in Papua New GuineaThe OAIC presented on freedom of information.
6 JulyDeloitte Australian Privacy Index 2020 launch webinarDeputy Commissioner Hampton was the keynote speaker.