What does the notification of the collection of personal information in the APP require?

The requirement for the notification of the collection of personal information in the Australian Privacy Principles (APP) states that organizations must inform individuals at or before the time they collect personal information. This means that individuals should be made aware that their personal information is being collected, the purpose for which it is being collected, and other relevant details such as who will have access to that information.

This is essential to ensure transparency and build trust between individuals and organizations handling their data. By notifying individuals that their personal information is being collected, organizations comply with the legal standards set out in privacy legislation, ensuring that individuals can make informed decisions about their personal data.

Alternatives may not fully capture the requirements specified in the APP. For instance, notifying individuals after collection or implying that individuals should only be aware of the collection through a privacy policy would not align with the proactive approach intended by the APP for the upfront notification of data collection.