Cyber Security Data Management

Privacy Awareness Week 2021 prioritises the protection of personal data

Eliza Sayon May 3, 2021

2 min read

In this Privacy Awareness Week 2021, the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) reminds and teaches organisations and individuals how to protect their personal information.

The Australian Community Attitudes to Privacy Survey was conducted by the OAIC last year. In the survey, they found the following:

70% of Australians see the protection of personal information as an important issue and a major concern in their life
84% think identity theft and fraud, and data security and breaches, are the biggest privacy risks
85% have a clear understanding of why they should protect their personal information but 49% of the 85% say they don’t know how to do so
84% feel privacy of information and data is important when choosing a digital service
87% want more control and choice over the collection and use of their personal information

“We know that privacy is a major concern for most Australians, but our research also shows that half are unsure how to protect their personal information,” said Australian Information Commissioner and Privacy Commissioner Angelene Falk.

“We are highlighting what we all can and must do to prioritise privacy and protect personal information now and into the future.”

And so for Privacy Awareness Week 2021, the OAIC focuses on sharing helpful and effective tips to help everyone create good privacy practices at home and at work.

The OAIC has developed new resources for those who want to learn more about protecting their personal data. Their new website shows the following:

privacy tips for home and for work
privacy tips for parents and carers
an infographic outlining the steps individuals should take if they receive a data breach notification
a 10-step process to undertaking a privacy impact assessment poster.

Commissioner Falk said record support for the event shows privacy has become a leading priority for organisations.

“We’re pleased to see more than 560 organisations are showing their support for Privacy Awareness Week and committing to promoting good privacy practice and advancing the privacy rights of individuals,” she said.

Now in its 16th year, Privacy Awareness Week will run from 3 to 9 May 2021 as an initiative of the Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities.

For more information about Privacy Awareness Week, visit the Privacy Awareness Week 2021 website.

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.