New Aussie data reforms to allow gov't easier access to citizens' personal data

CANBERRA, May 1 (Xinhua) -- The Australian government has set aside almost 50 million U.S. dollars over the next four years for a National Data Commissioner who will oversee the growing issue of personal data, and when and how it should be used.

Human Services Minister Michael Keenan announced the initiative on Tuesday, saying the new reforms will make it easier for government agencies to collect personal data, but he stressed that privacy will remain a priority.

The reforms will reduce regulations that prevent the release of personal information which may serve the public good.

But the National Data Commissioner, under the advisement of the new National Data Advisory Council and the Australian Privacy Commissioner, will decide what data can ethically be released.

"Australia's data is an important national resource which, when used correctly, can greatly assist consumers, researchers, government agencies and industry to better understand the world we live in and to make sound investment decisions based on evidence," Keenan said.

"The Data Commissioner will make it easier for data to be shared in a way that will safeguard the privacy of individuals, while delivering enormous benefits to the Australian population."

The new position is a result of recommendations made by the Productivity Commission report which was released last year. Enditem