Privacy Act Reform Hub

Since 2020, the Attorney General’s Department has been undertaking a comprehensive review of the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). The catalyst for this was the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s 2019 Digital Platforms Inquiry, which made several privacy recommendations.

Sparke Helmore’s privacy specialists are watching developments closely and share below a collection of the key things that our clients need to know.

Key developments so far – a timeline

Recent developments

• Read the latest news on Privacy Act reform in our November 2024 article.
• Read the Privacy Act Review Report.
• Read our ‘Top 10’ things you need to know from the report.

Office of the Information Commissioners' Privacy Awareness Week 2026

In recognition of the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner’s (OAIC) 2026 Privacy Awareness Week, Sparke Helmore will be hosting a webinar on Tuesday 5 May 2026 exploring this year’s theme - Trust is built here. In every privacy complaint. In every resolution.

Join Partners Chantal Tipene and  Kelly Matheson as they discuss the Privacy Commissioner’s new posture for the handling of individual privacy complaints and provide practical guidance for agencies and organisations on how to manage privacy complaints. Specifically, Chantal and Kelly will discuss:

• Common areas where privacy complaints arise.
• How to effectively manage a complaint
• Tips to efficiently investigate a privacy complaint; and
• If a privacy breach has occurred, steps to resolve the matter, including consideration of past breach findings and the quantum and type of damages awarded.

This session will be eligible for 1 CPD point in Practice Management and Business Skills.

If you haven’t received your invitation, please email contact@sparke.com.au.