DataPoints - National Data Commissioner Update September 2023

Interest in joining the DATA Scheme is keeping us busy - as you can see from the pipeline, we have received and are assessing more data user applications for accreditation. 

Get accredited to request data and be a data service provider 

Commonwealth, state and territory government agencies as well as Australian Universities can join the DATA Scheme by getting accredited 

• as a data user to request and use data collected by Australian Government agencies. See a sample user accreditation form, the characteristics we expect your organisation to meet for user accreditation and a checklist for making an application. 

• as a data service provider to provide data integration, deidentification and secure data access services. See the form and our instructions for applying to be an accredited data service provider. These are supported by our evidence guide, the characteristics we expect data service providers to meet, and a checklist for making an application. 

If you need further assistance, contact us and we’ll step you through it. 

We aim to assess applications for accreditation as a user within two months and data service providers within three months. It will be longer if applicants are asked to provide further information. 

You can see the full Register of Accredited Entities here. 

Want to learn more about the DATA Scheme? 

We are hosting webinars and online meetings on 18 October for you to learn more and strengthen your organisation’s data capability. Join us for: 

• 10am Data Discovery Webinar – Register here. 

• 11am DATA Scheme 101 – Register here. 

• 1pm Applying for accreditation as a data user – Register here. 

• 2.30pm Applying for accreditation as a data service provider – Register here. 

Good reads for the data community 

This month Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher spoke about Australia’s Digital ID System and the release of draft Digital ID legislation. Australia’s Digital ID System will be a secure, convenient and voluntary method to verify your identify online, without the need to hand over copies of sensitive documents. Read her speech here. 

Good uses of public data 

The Digital Atlas of Australia beta was released at the end of June transforming how we access and use location data. The interactive, secure and easy-to-use platform brings together, curates and connects trusted data from across government. Users at any level of experience can explore, analyse and visualise data on Australia's geography, people, economy and environment. Powered by an Integrated Geospatial Infrastructure, the Digital Atlas connects data across borders, sectors, and disciplines, paving the way for more efficient use of data to implement evidence-based decisions. Check it out! 

If you’ve got feedback or something to share in future editions of DataPoints, please get in touch. We’re always interested to hear your stories, including about how you have used data to deliver public benefit. And follow us on LinkedIn! 

Gayle