Privacy & Data Security Lawyers
Privacy and data security have become critical business issues. With the Australian Privacy Act undergoing significant reform and data breaches increasingly common, businesses need expert legal advice to manage their obligations and protect their interests. Sierra Legal's privacy and data security lawyers provide practical, commercially focused advice across all aspects of Australian privacy law.
Expert Privacy Law Advice for Australian Businesses
Sierra Legal advises businesses of all sizes on their privacy and data security obligations under Australian law. We take a pragmatic approach — helping you understand what is required, put the right frameworks in place, and respond effectively when things go wrong.
Our privacy team works closely with our M&A and technology lawyers to provide integrated advice on privacy risk across transactions, technology contracts and business operations.
Sierra Legal advises on:
- Australian Privacy Act compliance
- Privacy policies and collection notices
- Data breach response and notification
- Privacy in M&A and due diligence
- Privacy risk in technology contracts
- Cross-border data transfers
Privacy in M&A Transactions
Privacy is an increasingly important consideration in M&A due diligence. Acquiring a business means inheriting its data obligations — and its data risks. Sierra Legal's lawyers review privacy compliance as part of the due diligence process, identifying material risks that could affect transaction value or require post-completion remediation.
Why Sierra Legal for Privacy
We take a pragmatic approach to privacy law — helping you understand what is required, put the right frameworks in place, and respond effectively when things go wrong. Speak with Sierra Legal's privacy lawyers today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my obligations under the Australian Privacy Act?
If your business collects, uses or discloses personal information, you may be subject to the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). Obligations include having a privacy policy, collecting only necessary information, keeping it secure and allowing individuals to access and correct their data. Sierra Legal can advise on whether the Act applies to you and how to comply.
What should I do if my business has a data breach?
You may need to notify the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) and affected individuals under the Notifiable Data Breaches scheme. Steps include containing the breach, assessing the risk of serious harm, and preparing notifications. Sierra Legal can guide you through the process and help manage regulatory and reputational risk.
How does the Privacy Act affect M&A?
Acquiring a business means inheriting its data and privacy obligations. Buyers should assess the target's privacy compliance during due diligence. Material breaches or poor data practices can affect deal value and require post-completion remediation. Sierra Legal reviews privacy as part of M&A due diligence.
What are the Privacy Act reforms and when do they take effect?
The Australian Government is implementing significant Privacy Act reforms, including stronger consent requirements, new rights for individuals and higher penalties. Key changes are being phased in. Sierra Legal stays across the reforms and can help you prepare for the new requirements.
Does Sierra Legal advise on privacy for technology businesses?
Yes. We advise technology and SaaS businesses on privacy policies, data processing agreements, cross-border data transfers and privacy risk in commercial contracts. Our privacy lawyers work alongside our technology lawyers to provide integrated advice.