She was an ex-director of investigation and reporting at the Information and Privacy Commission NSW
The NSW Government has announced the appointment of Sonia Minutillo as the state’s new privacy commissioner, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the privacy rights of residents.
According to a news release, Minutillo, who has been acting in the role since August 2023, will continue to oversee compliance with privacy legislation and provide independent oversight of how public sector agencies handle personal information. Her appointment was confirmed by attorney general Michael Daley and minister for customer service and digital government Jihad Dib.
“The privacy commissioner plays an important role in ensuring accountability in NSW Government by ensuring the public sector handles personal information responsibly and takes steps to prevent and manage any data breaches,” Dib said. “Minutillo has demonstrated her expertise in this area while acting as privacy commissioner over the past 18 months.”
As privacy commissioner, Minutillo will be responsible for investigating and conciliating complaints related to breaches of privacy. She will also advise government agencies, businesses, and organisations on privacy compliance and oversee reviews of reported data breaches. Additionally, she will focus on policy, legal, and technological developments impacting privacy.
Before stepping into the acting commissioner role, Minutillo was the director of investigation and reporting at the Information and Privacy Commission NSW, where she led regulatory functions including complaints, investigations, and proactive compliance programs.
Attorney general Michael Daley welcomed Minutillo’s appointment, highlighting her experience and leadership in regulatory functions. “As the NSW privacy commissioner, Ms Minutillo will drive integrity and strong accountability in the public sector to underpin robust governance at every level,” he said. “Her extensive experience and qualifications make her well-placed to continue the important work of promoting and protecting the privacy rights of the NSW community.”
As the NSW privacy commissioner, Minutillo will lead efforts to ensure compliance with the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 and the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2022, reinforcing protections for individuals’ personal data across NSW.
