UPDATE — AUGUST 2025: Australia’s Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 has now become law, receiving Royal Assent on December 10, 2024. The reforms introduce a new statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy, create criminal penalties for doxxing (up to 7 years for aggravated cases), and restore the Privacy Commissioner as a standalone regulator. Most provisions are in effect, while AI/automated decision-making transparency rules phase in by December 2026. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has signaled this is only the first tranche of reform, with a second package expected in late 2025 to tackle remaining issues such as small business exemptions and GDPR-style individual rights.
ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:
Australia Introduces Landmark Privacy Law to Tackle Digital Challenges
Australia is making a major move to strengthen citizens’ privacy rights with the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024. Championed by Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, the bill reflects the Albanese Government’s ongoing commitment to modernize the nation’s data protection framework and address new digital-age threats, including data breaches and online harassment such as doxxing.
Introduced on September 12, 2024, the bill reforms the Privacy Act of 1988, which has struggled to keep pace with technological change. In recent years, Australians have faced increasing risks from major data breaches that exposed personal details to cybercriminals. The new bill represents the first stage in a broader privacy reform strategy designed to better protect individuals and hold organizations accountable.
New Legal Protections and Children’s Privacy Code
One of the central components of the bill is the introduction of a new statutory tort to address serious invasions of privacy. This provision will allow individuals to take legal action if they feel their privacy has been seriously violated. The bill also outlines the development of a Children’s Online Privacy Code, a critical measure to protect children from harmful online practices. The government has allocated $3 million over the next three years to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) to develop this code.
Another notable change in the law is the enhanced transparency around automated decision-making. With the increasing reliance on algorithms and AI-driven technologies, the bill will give Australians greater visibility into how these systems impact their rights and personal information.
Additionally, the bill facilitates better information sharing during emergencies, such as natural disasters, and in cases of eligible data breaches. This ensures that while sensitive information is being shared to address urgent issues, it remains appropriately protected under the new regulations.
One of the most critical updates in the legislation is the introduction of new criminal offenses to combat doxxing, a growing threat where personal information is maliciously posted online to target individuals. The bill imposes harsh penalties for such behavior, with offenders facing up to six years of imprisonment. If the doxxing incident targets someone based on their race, religion, gender, or other protected characteristics, the penalty increases to seven years.
Criminal Penalties for Doxxing and Enhanced Enforcement
The legislation introduces criminal offenses to combat doxxing, imposing up to six years in prison for offenders. In aggravated cases involving discrimination based on race, religion, gender, or other protected traits, penalties rise to seven years. These changes build on earlier government reforms that increased penalties for serious privacy breaches. The bill restores the Australian Privacy Commissioner as an independent regulator, expanding their authority to enforce privacy law and respond to violations swiftly. Companies that breach privacy obligations can face fines of up to 5% of annual turnover, underscoring the government’s determination to protect personal information.
A Foundation for Future Privacy Reform
This legislation represents the first stage in Australia’s comprehensive privacy reform effort. The government plans continued consultation with industry, small businesses, consumer groups, and the media to ensure balanced and effective protections. By addressing modern digital threats while supporting innovation, the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 establishes a stronger, fairer foundation for privacy in Australia’s digital era.
Need Help?
If you’re wondering how Australia’s AI policy, or any other government’s bill or regulations could impact you, don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts are ready to provide valuable assistance while answering your questions and concerns.
