Privacy, Security and Ethics

The protection of data is paramount to ensure high integrity and standards, and maintaining privacy and security are of critical importance to the Data Linkage Services team. We have developed and deployed privacy protocols described in Kelman (2002). These best practice procedures are supported by Data Providers and the Department of Health Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC).

We are committed to ensuring an optimal level of security. A full report on Confidentiality and Security Standards at Data Linkage Services and the results of an independent security review of our privacy protocols are available in the Privacy and Security section of our Publications page.

Our processes follow the guidelines of the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) for ethical review and conduct of human research. The Department of Health HREC has special responsibility for oversight of the use and disclosure of personal health information held in the Department of Health data collections.

Follow the links below to find out more about privacy, security, ethics, and consumer representation.