Privacy Awareness Week is a global campaign that brings together public sector agencies and the community to build understanding of privacy rights and responsibilities. The week focuses on helping people better understand NSW privacy laws, what their rights are, and how organisations must protect personal information.
This year, Privacy Awareness Week NSW runs from 4 to 10 May 2026. The 2026 theme is:
Smart Tech, Smarter Choices – Protecting Yourself in the Age of AI
As Artificial Intelligence becomes part of everyday work and life, protecting personal information is more important than ever. With digital tools increasingly used for planning, regulation and community engagement, being open and transparent about how personal information is used remains essential.
Parkes Shire Council's commitment
Parkes Shire Council is proud to be a Champion of Privacy Awareness Week NSW 2026 and remains committed to safeguarding the privacy of our community.
Parkes Shire Council's General Manager, Kent Boyd, said Privacy Awareness Week is an important reminder for both organisations and individuals to take privacy seriously.
"Protecting personal information is a shared responsibility," Mr Boyd said.
"As technology continues to evolve, it's vital that we stay informed and take simple steps to safeguard our data in everyday life."
Mr Boyd said Council is committed to maintaining strong privacy practices across all its services, including only storing the information we need.
"Our community trusts us with their information, and we take that responsibility seriously by ensuring robust systems and transparent processes are in place," he said.
Protecting your privacy in an AI world
This Privacy Awareness Week, keep these simple privacy tips in mind:
- Your personal information is valuable.
Small actions, like checking your app privacy settings and thinking before you share, can make a big difference.
- Use strong, unique passwords.
Avoid reusing passwords across accounts, update them regularly, and enable two‑factor authentication wherever possible.
- Be alert to scams.
Phishing scams and fake requests for information are becoming more sophisticated with AI. Always check the source before sharing details.
- Be informed when using AI tools.
AI can be helpful, but it's important to understand what information is collected, how it is used, and where it is stored. Never enter personal information unless you know exactly how it will be handled.
- Speak up if something doesn't seem right.
Report data breaches or suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities and stay proactive about protecting your information.
Know your rights
As a member of the public, you have the right to have your personal information handled safely and respectfully.
To learn more about how Council protects your privacy, visit our website:
Privacy Statement Parkes Shire Council
You can also learn more by visiting the Privacy Awareness Week webpage: www.ipc.nsw.gov.au/PAWNSW2026
