UNICEF Australia welcomes the first-ever Children’s Online Privacy Code included in today’s long-awaited Privacy Act bill as a vital move to protecting children online.
The Government is set to introduce legislation to strengthen privacy protections for all Australians, including a Children’s Online Privacy Code, with an additional $3 million over three years for its development.
Katie Maskiell, Head of Policy and Advocacy at UNICEF Australia, said “The need for a specific code to protect children and their online identities has become increasingly urgent – so today we are thrilled that our calls have been heard and that this important step has been taken.
“We know that data is the currency of the online world, and children's data - where it's collected, traded and sold on mass scales - is considered big business.
“This code will ensure children’s data is only collected and used in a way that serves their best interests and will provide them with the protections they are entitled to.
“It will hold tech companies accountable, ensuring they are transparent with how they use children's data, and that terms and conditions of apps are clear and straightforward.
“An overhaul is necessary and has been long-awaited – 35 years in the making - as old privacy legislation simply hasn't kept up with the times.
“Today’s decision will set the foundation for years to come – and together with industry stakeholders, our supporting communities and each and every family - we can all take that one step closer to making Australia the safest place in the world for children to go online,” Ms Maskiell said.
UNICEF Australia will continue to advocate for the best interests of children across all reforms of the Privacy Act, including the inclusion of our Responsible Data for Children Principles in the development of the Children's Online Privacy Code.
For resources on how to stay safe online, visit the UNICEF Australia Youth page at: https://www.unicef.org.au/unicef-youth/staying-safe-online