Media companies in Australia have rejected a proposal to reform the country's privacy laws, which would allow individuals the right to sue outlets for serious invasions of privacy. The Right to Know coalition warned that these changes could have a "devastating impact on press freedom and journalism in Australia without any clearly defined need or benefit."
The coalition argued that media organizations should be required to comply with obligations such as securing and destroying private information. Additionally, they proposed that companies should be obliged to notify affected individuals under the notifiable data breaches scheme.
However, concerns were raised by members of the Right To Know Coalition who believe this potential reform would disproportionately affect smaller media organizations. These smaller entities may need to cut back on reporting efforts in order remaining compliant with new regulations.
During earlier consultations regarding these reforms, The Business Council of Australia opposed introducing a legal right for people affected by privacy breaches suing those responsible - also known as tort law. In January 2021 statement from representatives stated it was “premature” since many aspects already overlap existing protections provided through Australian Privacy Principles (APP).
"The introduction of such legislation has far-reaching consequences," said Jane Wilson, CEO at Regional Press Association Of Australia Ltd., adding: "We must ensure we protect our democratic principles while balancing an individual’s right for protection against invasion into their personal lives.”
As discussions continue around proposed changes withinAustralia'sprivacy laws landscape remains uncertain future role journalism plays society– particularly when considering balance between pressfreedomand protectionofpersonalinformation