Structure of the OPC

Regulatory structure

45.11 Chapter 46 sets out the ALRC’s recommended regulatory structure for the OPC. The chapter provides an overview of the Privacy Commissioner’s powers and examines the accountability mechanisms to which the Commissioner is subject under the Privacy Act. The ALRC recommends that the name of the OPC should be changed to the ‘Australian Privacy Commission’ and that the number of statutory appointees should be increased.[7] The ALRC also recommends that the matters the Commissioner must have regard to in exercising his or her powers should be aligned with the recommended objects of the Privacy Act.[8] Finally, the chapter examines the assistance given to the OPC by the Privacy Advisory Committee and recommends reform to the composition of the Committee.[9]

[7] Recs 46–1, 46–2.

[8] Rec 46–3.

[9] Rec 46–4.