The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) is seeking public comment on the draft Guide to big data and the Australian Privacy Principles.

The aim of the Draft Guide is to facilitate big data activities across the public and private sectors, while at the same time protecting personal information in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). 

To achieve a balanced approach to big data use and privacy protection, the Draft Guide recommends that APP entities:

• 1. introduce a holistic approach of 'privacy by design' to embed privacy protection in their cultures, practices, processes, systems and initiatives;
• 2. conduct privacy impact assessments as part of their risk management and planning processes; and
• 3. consider whether de-identified information can be used before undertaking any big data activities involving personal information.

While these points are consistent with previous guidance and statements issued by the OAIC, the Draft Guide also addresses a range of other big data privacy issues, including notice and consent, retention minimisation and use limitation.

The closing date for comments is Monday 26 July 2016.

Consultation information: Guide to big data and the Australian Privacy Principles

Consultation draft: Guide to big data and the Australian Privacy Principles