Digital and Cybersecurity

The rapid digitisation of the economy has created unprecedented opportunities for business. But, at the same time, it poses challenges in areas like digital literacy, data protection and privacy, cybersecurity, and new technologies like artificial intelligence. 

Many small businesses are struggling to keep pace with changes brought about by the digital economy, as they lack the skills and resources to capitalise on new opportunities and overcome challenges. A cohesive, nationwide digital literacy strategy is essential to equip businesses and the workforce with the skills necessary to thrive. 

As technology advances, so too do the challenges associated with a booming digital economy. This includes data privacy, which is becoming increasingly important as we make strides in new technology, like AI. Cybersecurity is another critical issue for businesses. With the rise of cyber-attacks on both large corporations and SMEs, there is a need for better preparedness and resilience. Cybercrime already costs the economy over $1 billion a year, and small businesses, in particular, are vulnerable. ACCI advocates for increased investment in skills and awareness to combat the challenges of the digital economy, and better collaboration between government and industry to lay the foundations for businesses to make the most of new opportunities.

As technology advances and businesses continue to digitise, Government faces a tough challenge to ensure advanced technology and the policy that governs it is safe, secure and ethical, while being light-touch as to not overburn business or create barriers to the adoption of new technology. Overregulation risks hindering growth and limiting the adoption of new, productivity-enhancing technologies, particularly for smaller businesses. Striking the right balance between protecting consumer interests and fostering a competitive, innovative environment is critical to driving Australia’s digital economy forward. See our digital and cybersecurity policy positions below. 

Ross Creelman

Associate Director | Digital, Cyber & Energy Policy

Digital Literacy

• Develop a cohesive national digital literacy strategy.
• Reintroduce and expand government incentives to boost digital literacy for business.

Data and Privacy

Expand data-sharing capability while continuing to safeguard privacy
Data sharing is essential for improving productivity across businesses and government. The Australian Data Strategy, launched in 2021, stipulated three priorities, including enabling greater data use, improving data safety and security, and maximising the value of data. We support the continued implementation of this strategy, as well as the Government's expansion of the Consumer Data Right (CDR), which allows businesses to engage customers, tailor services, drive innovation, and boost operational efficiencies. However, newly covered sectors need sufficient time to understand and implement this system effectively. Additionally, we advocate for amendments to the Data Availability and Transparency (DAT) Act to enable safer, more productive data sharing between government agencies and the private sector. Such reforms will streamline access to public sector data, encourage innovation, and enhance services, while safeguarding sensitive information.

Reform privacy laws to reflect the modern digital landscape
The rapid adoption of new technology brings challenges, like the increased accessibility of personal data to technology providers and businesses. As personal data becomes more available, legislation should be updated to reflect this. Ongoing discussions about the Privacy Act highlight the need for policies that address the growing use of personal information across society and the economy, especially given the sensitive nature of certain data. Any reforms to the Privacy Act should be based on best-in-class standards, ensuring Australians’ personal information is protected, while avoiding unnecessary administrative burdens. This approach will foster greater trust and confidence in new technology and its adoption by business.

Cybersecurity

• Strengthen cybersecurity awareness and capability for small and medium businesses.
• Establish minimum cybersecurity standards in government technology contracts to safeguard businesses.

Artificial Intelligence

Promote the coordinated and ethical development of artificial intelligence technologies across sectors
The Federal Government has taken positive steps in encouraging the adoption of advanced technologies, like artificial intelligence (AI) by business in our digital economy. This includes the development of the AI Action Plan, the National Artificial Intelligence Centre, and including AI in the list of seven critical technology areas. However, more coordination is needed across all levels of government to maximise the economic gains from AI. A focus on ensuring that AI is developed and used ethically, with safeguards around data privacy and trust, will foster greater business confidence in AI-driven technologies.

Develop artificial intelligence regulation that fosters innovation while protecting privacy
As AI technologies are adopted by more businesses, a strong legislative framework is required to ensure ethical practices. At the same time, it’s critical that government regulation does not stifle the development of technology and its adoption by business. We advocate for a risk-based regulatory approach, where lower-risk AI applications face less stringent regulation than higher-risk applications. This balance ensures that businesses can continue to innovate and take full advantage of the benefits of the digital economy, while maintaining a framework that prioritses the ethical use of technology, leading to greater business confidence.