6/11/06

The Privacy Commissioner, Ms Karen Curtis, has today welcomed the appointment by the Governor-General of Robin Banks to the Privacy Advisory Committee (PAC).

''Robin brings a wealth of experience, particular from the community sector, and I have no doubt that she will make a significant contribution to the PAC'' said Ms Curtis.

Ms Banks is the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Interest Advocacy Centre and has been appointed to the PAC for a three year term.

Established under the Privacy Act, the PAC advises the Privacy Commissioner on privacy issues and the protection of personal information, as well as providing strategic input to key projects undertaken by the Commissioner. In addition, the PAC fosters collaborative partnerships between key stakeholders to further promote the protection of individual privacy and promotes the value of privacy to the Australian community, business and government.

''Community, information technology, business, government, union and consumer views are brought to the table to help my Office meet its objective of promoting an Australian culture that respects privacy,'' said Ms Curtis.

Ms Curtis also paid tribute to Graeme Innes AM, who resigned from the PAC earlier this year following his appointment as Human Rights Commissioner.

''Graeme''s input into the PAC was invaluable, particularly during my Office''s review into the private sector provisions of the Privacy Act'' said Ms Curtis.

''His knowledge of disability-related concerns and those of the community at large were particular areas of expertise that he brought to our discussions.''

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