Everyone has the right to feel safe and confident when using phone and internet goods and services. Consumers want to engage online, but many have deep concerns about the security of their personal information, manipulative practices, and fraud. Others feel disempowered by the lack of transparency surrounding how their personal information is gathered, stored and shared by third parties. Small businesses are concerned about cyber security breaches, scam activity and ransomware attacks, and the impact these may have on their lives and livelihoods. Many consumers, young and old, lack the opportunity and confidence to use the internet and are challenged by technology that could improve their lives. Consumers are concerned about the rising spread of misinformation online and the security and safety of digital platforms, and there is uncertainty about consumers’ rights on digital platforms and streaming services.

ACCAN will work to ensure everyone can engage safely and confidently with communications services and digital platforms. We will advocate for improved privacy protections for Australian consumers that are comparable to international best practice, and for measures to tighten protections for consumers experiencing vulnerability and abuse, including technology-facilitated abuse. We will also advocate for a framework to build trust in the Internet of Things, and support initiatives to assist consumers to get online, particularly for remote communities that could benefit the most. We will support the introduction of the Consumer Data Right in telecommunications, and online digital identity systems, but only if consumer privacy is not compromised and consumer information is protected from exploitation. We will engage with government and industry to reduce barriers for consumers to confidently and safely use the internet and digital platforms, including older people and small businesses. We will ensure consumers have appropriate consumer protections when using digital platforms. Through taking these steps, ACCAN will help establish an environment in which consumers can use communications goods, services and platforms with more confidence.