Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Dan Tehan has asked for an independent Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) for the Digital Readiness Bill’s public interest disclosure rules once they have been finalised.
“The Digital Readiness Bill’s rules are designed to strengthen privacy protections for veterans as their first priority. These RuIes will codify safeguards about the use of personal information,” Mr Tehan said.
“In consultation with the veterans’ community, I have asked for an independent Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) to be conducted outside of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs by the Australian Govemment Solicitor once the Rules are finalised. This is in addition to the PIA we have already conducted when the Rules were initially drafted “.
“Under the rules, private information and records will be protected. Both Privacy Impact Assessments will be released to the public before the Rules are tabled in the Parliament, as part of the continuing, comprehensive consultation process”.
“I welcome any further input from the veteran community and the public. Anyone who wants to have their say can email my office on [email protected]
Media enquiries:
Minister Tehan’s Office: Byron Vale, 0428 262 894
Department of Veterans’ Affairs Media: 02 6289 6203
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) can be reached 24 hours a day across Australia for crisis support and free and confidential counselling. Phone 1800011046 (international: +61 882414546). VVCS is a service founded by Vietnam veterans.