Australia Proposes Privacy Overhaul and IDLock Identity Tool

Attorney-General Michelle Rowland is releasing draft legislation to overhaul Australian privacy laws to address risks from artificial intelligence and smart glasses. The proposed changes introduce a right to erasure, which allows individuals to request that search companies and social media platforms destroy their personal information, though news organizations are exempt from this requirement.

As part of a broader identity verification framework, the government announced IDLock, a tool that will be integrated into myGov accounts by 2027 following a trial period. IDLock will allow citizens to block, unblock, and monitor the use of identity documents, such as passports and driver licenses, to prevent identity theft and scams.

Concurrent with these legislative moves, the Australian eSafety Commissioner urged smart glasses manufacturers to implement privacy protections, such as blurring faces by default for non-consenting individuals. The watchdog warned that the technology could facilitate cyberbullying and the covert recording of women. In response to these risks, the Australian Greens have proposed a 12-month ban on the import of smart glasses and suggested laws that would make non-consensual filming a breach of privacy.

The government intends to consult with industry stakeholders before introducing the privacy laws to parliament by the end of 2026.