29 October 2002

"The small business countdown is on" said Federal Privacy Commissioner, Malcolm Crompton.

"In 8 weeks time, on 21 December 2002, more small businesses will be covered by the federal Privacy Act. Those businesses covered by the Act should have their privacy policies and practices in place by that date," said Federal Privacy Commissioner, Malcolm Crompton. Up until this date, the only small businesses to be covered by the Privacy Act have been health service providers such as Doctors, Pharmacists and gym clubs.

"My approach is to help businesses to comply with the Act. My Office has set up a small business web page, and a set of three publications that directly target the information needs of small business to help them determine whether they are covered, and what to do if they are (see Small Business page).

"Good privacy is good business", said the Commissioner, and he noted that "getting privacy right is essentially about collecting only the information you need to complete the transaction, letting people know why you are collecting their personal information, how you will use it and ensuring you keep it secure. Having these common courtesies in place builds positive relationships with customers, and will help organisations meet their responsibilities under the Privacy Act.

"Most small businesses will not be covered by the Act. Only those that: are health service providers, trade in personal information, are related to a larger business or are a contractor to Commonwealth agencies will need to comply. Many small businesses have already taken up the option to opt in to coverage under the Privacy Act (see Opting-In to Coverage by the National Privacy Principles).

"All health service providers and businesses with a turnover of more than $3 million have been subject to the Act since December 2001. Organisations that began preparations before they were covered have found compliance easier, and have been in a better position to deal with consumer's privacy issues. I encourage small business to take a lead from such organisations.