2016 Census Overview - Actioning the 2016 MacGibbon Recommendations

Actioning the 2016 MacGibbon Recommendations

The Special Adviser to the Prime Minister on Cyber Security undertook a review of the events surrounding the outage of the online Census form. We implemented the recommendations and are incorporating them into our 2021 approach.

	Recommendation
	Engage an independent security consultant to examine all aspects of information collection and storage relating to Census data – from web application through to infrastructure, policies and procedures.
	The ABS should ensure future significant changes to personal information handling practices are subject to an independently-conducted privacy impact assessment and are supported by broad ranging consultation.
	The ABS should adopt a privacy management plan to enhance its capability to identify and manage new privacy issues.
	Assess and enhance existing ABS privacy training for staff.
	Develop a formal procurement strategy to remove the state of vendor lock-in.
	Read more on the 2021 Census procurement activities.
	The ABS should strengthen its approach to outsourced ICT supplier performance management to ensure greater oversight and accountability.
	Draw upon the lessons learned from the Census 2016 experience to guide and advocate for the cultural change path ABS is undertaking. Read more in the Australian Statistician’s speech on these learnings.
	The ABS’s decision in August to assemble an independent panel to provide assurance and transparency of Census quality is supported and the resulting report should be made public. The ABS should implement a targeted communication strategy to address public perceptions about Census data quality. Read the report from the Independent Quality Assurance Panel Report.