04 May 2009

Speaking today at the launch of her Office's new magazine-style publication for young adults, the Australian Privacy Commissioner, Karen Curtis, said that not enough 18-24 year olds know about their privacy rights under Australian law.

"From online social networking to getting your ID scanned at clubs, young people are at the forefront of activities that have major privacy implications and yet, they are one of the groups in our society that is least aware of its privacy rights," Ms Curtis said.

"Research by my Office has shown that 18-24 year olds are less familiar with their privacy rights than older Australians, and all too few are armed with the knowledge to ensure they are receiving the standards of privacy protection they are entitled to."

Ms Curtis said her Office's magazine-style publication, private i, was produced to address this issue, helping to educate young people about privacy.

"Private i aims to get young adults thinking about the privacy implications of their everyday actions, and to point them in the right direction for further information and guidance," Ms Curtis said.

The publication covers issues such as: online social networking, identity theft, the scanning of identity documents at pubs and clubs, ''blacklists', online shopping, dealing with telemarketers, and responding to requests for personal information.

"The privacy issues private i addresses relate to the dramatic changes that 18-24 year olds often experience, such as moving out of home, commencing university, entering the workforce, and developing greater financial and social independence," Ms Curtis said.

The publication will progressively be distributed across the country through universities, TAFE colleges, and other forums. To order copies, email corporate@privacy.gov.au. It is also available for download online at www.privacy.gov.au/topics/youth/.