Release: Activists build email generator to help millions speak out against controversial bill
An “email generator portal” has created a shortcut for millions of Australians eager to speak out against a controversial government bill.
The Digital Identity Bill has been drafted to introduce a centralised national framework to allow a Digital ID to be used by the private sector.
If the bill were passed, it would mean the federal government would manage a database of Australians’ digital identities containing so much personal information that businesses would no longer see a need to collect passport or licence details in order to prove a customer’s identity.
Australians concerned about the prospect of their digital ID being managed by unelected bureaucrats in the age of numerous data breaches can use the Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance’s new email generator portal to lodge a submission against the bill.
Grassroots advocacy body Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance built the portal to make it easier and faster for voters to have their voice heard by parliament.
ATA Chief Operating Officer Gabe Buckley said it would take less than 30 seconds to send an email directly to the Digital Transformation Agency by using the portal.
“It’s vital that voters are able to have their say about new laws and policy,” Mr Buckley said.
“The government works for the people of Australia, not the other way around, and legislation should reflect that.”
Mr Buckley, who has worked in IT for 25 years said centralising personal data was risky.
“The information technology world discovered long ago that centralising mountains of data in massive repositories was a security threat waiting to happen,” he said.
“Having presided over numerous data breaches of their own design, the government is now demanding you hand over every piece of identifying information to them, for safekeeping.
“That this bill has even been drafted is an insult to freedom and civil society.”
About the ATA:
The Australian Taxpayers' Alliance is the nation’s largest grassroots advocacy group representing the everyday Australian taxpayer. Through our campaigns, we fight to oppose over-regulation, wasteful spending and burdensome taxes. Our mission is to transform our nation and build a better, freer, and more prosperous Australia. Find out more at www.taxpayers.org.au