Broadening the Privacy Act’s notification rules

Overview

The Government is considering potential changes to the notification rules for collecting personal information under the Privacy Act 2020.

The Ministry of Justice wants to hear from stakeholders and the public on the form and scope of the proposals.

They would broaden the Act’s requirements for an individual to be notified when an agency collects their personal information indirectly through a third party.

Extending the requirement to indirect collection would promote transparency and support international trade.

Why your views matter

Transparency regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information is fundamental to protecting individuals’ privacy rights and their dignity and autonomy.

These changes would ensure New Zealand keeps up to date with privacy laws and best practice in overseas jurisdictions. They would also support international trade, and in particular the cross-border flow of personal information as a basis for digital trade.

The Ministry is keen to hear from agencies involved in the indirect collection of personal information, whether domestically or overseas, as well as from individuals whose personal information may be indirectly collected.