Australia’s Privacy Law Updates: What Your Business Needs to Know
If you collect customer emails, run online ads, or send marketing messages, then Australia’s privacy laws may be changing soon—and it’s worth getting prepared!
The Australian Government has been reviewing the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), and while not all proposed changes are law yet, small businesses should be aware of what’s coming and adopt best practices to stay ahead.
So, what’s being discussed, and how can your business prepare? Let’s break it down.
What Changes Are Being Proposed?
More Rights for Individuals
Customers may soon have greater control over their data, including the ability to request its deletion. While this isn’t law yet, it’s good practice to offer customers clear choices about their data.
Tighter Rules on Marketing & Data Collection
Collecting emails for a newsletter?
Running Facebook or Google Ads?
Using a CRM or email marketing tool?
Future changes could require more explicit consent for collecting and using personal data. Now’s a great time to review your opt-in policies.
Transparency in Automation & AI
If your business uses AI-powered ads, email automation, or chatbots, future laws may require clearer explanationsof how customer data is being used.
Revisiting the Small Business Exemption
Right now, small businesses earning under $3 million per year are exempt from some privacy laws, but this may change. While there’s no immediate impact, it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Avoid the spam folder! With Australia’s evolving privacy laws, getting clear consent for marketing emails is more important than ever.
How Can Small Businesses Prepare?
Even though these changes aren’t law yet, here’s what you can do to build trust with your customers and future-proof your marketing:
Review Your Data Collection Practices
Check your email sign-up forms—do they clearly explain how data is used?
Make sure your privacy policy is easy to find.
Make It Easy for Customers to Opt-Out
Keep unsubscribe options clear in emails.
Allow customers to update or remove their data.
Be Transparent with AI & Automation
If you use automated marketing tools, be upfront about how they work.
Stay Informed
Follow updates from the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).
If changes are introduced, be ready to adapt rather than scrambling later.
What Comes Next?
While these privacy law changes aren’t final yet, small businesses that stay ahead of the curve will be in a stronger position. Good privacy practices build trust with customers and make compliance easier down the track.
If you want help reviewing your marketing and privacy practices, book a free consultation with Rin Creative—let’s make sure your business is ready!