Australia is tightening the rules on children’s privacy – here’s how it will work
Australia is tightening the rules on children’s privacy – here’s how it will work
Publish Date: 2026-03-31 20:23:00
Source Domain: theconversation.com
- Australia’s privacy laws have significantly outdated practices that fail to address modern digital realities.
- The Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Act in 2024 mandated the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) to develop a code to protect young Australians online.
- The draft Children’s Online Privacy Code includes most online services and platforms used by children, aiming for the best interests of the child.
- Data minimisation mandates that children’s personal data can only be collected with a clear purpose, and it should only be kept for as long as necessary.
- Children have a clear right to request the deletion (“right to be forgotten”) of their personal data from online services.
- The code enforces geolocation transparency, notifying children when their location data is shared.
- Age-appropriate explanations must be provided for data requests to children, improving their digital literacy and preventing deceptive design tricks.
- Anticipated pushback from technology companies highlights the code’s challenge to traditional big data practices.
- There is a need for enhanced digital literacy among parents to ensure informed consent for children under 15.
- The OAIC has launched a Privacy for Kids website with resources for public consultation until June 5, aiming for a final code by December 10, 2026.
