The Northern Territory Information Commissioner, Brenda Monaghan, is joining the debate on people’s privacy over the Wilson Parking issue.

The Commissioner is highly supportive of protecting people’s privacy and has requested a full briefing from the Northern Territory Government about its arrangements with Wilson Parking and any proposed sharing of personal information.

Ms Monaghan says, “I am aware there are court processes occurring.  It is not the role of this Office to interfere with the jurisdiction of the courts however, there are a range of privacy questions that arise beyond the court orders. 

For example, are there other options for enforcing parking that are less invasive of people’s privacy, and what care will be taken with the information once it is provided?  If Wilson Parking is a contract service provider of an NTG Department, that Department may be required to ensure that Wilson Parking adheres to certain privacy laws when handling personal information.

Today, governments collect vast amounts of personal information about individuals, and privacy laws exist to ensure that information is kept secure from misuse.  It is the experience of my Office that, with a little thought and planning, there are usually ways to deliver services while protecting people’s privacy.” 

The Information Commissioner office is available to provide training and advice to government organisations about privacy compliance and best practice.  They can also provide members of the community with advice if they believe their privacy has been breached by a government organisation.

Further details for the Information Commissioner are available at www.infocomm.nt.gov.au or Freecall 1800 250 918.

Media Contact:

Paula Hopson, A/Manager Media & Communications
Tel: 0400 342389 or email paula.hopson@nt.gov.au