ACS demands tougher cybersecurity laws after Optus data breach fallout

The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has backed calls for stronger cybersecurity and privacy laws following the Optus data breach. The organisation, which represents over 35,000 technology workers, sees this as a chance to update outdated regulations. CEO Chris Vein has welcomed the government’s push for reform in these areas.

ACS has praised recent comments from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Cyber Security Minister Claire O'Neil on revising privacy and cybersecurity laws. The group argues that current legislation—spanning security, data retention, money laundering, and privacy—has been introduced piecemeal over the past decade with little coordination.

Louay Ghashash, chair of the ACS Cyber Security Committee, has proposed strict enforcement of security best practices, including heavy penalties for companies that fail to comply. He also recommends a single, unified standard for protecting customer data. To reduce risks, the ACS suggests using tokenised payment systems, which would limit the need for businesses to store sensitive personal information. The organisation aims to safeguard all Australians while helping the country’s tech sector compete globally. It has offered to collaborate with key ministers in cybersecurity, technology, and telecommunications to build a modern legal framework for the digital economy.

The ACS believes the current focus on privacy and security could lead to a more cohesive legal system for technology. By working with policymakers, the group hopes to create stronger protections for data and support Australia’s digital growth. The proposed reforms would also ease compliance burdens on businesses while improving security standards.