I am deeply troubled by the revelation that Coles, a trusted household name in Australia, is reportedly using Palantir software in its stores to collect data from both shoppers and staff without explicit permission. Even more distressing is the claim that such data has allegedly been used to provide information to the Israeli Army, potentially contributing to the tragic loss of life and destruction in Gaza. This association, if true, goes against the values of privacy, fairness, and ethical conduct that we expect from a company we regularly support with our shopping dollars.

The use of advanced data analysis tools like Palantir in retail settings raises significant ethical concerns about privacy and consent. Customers and staff at Coles deserve transparency and the assurance that their personal data is not being exploited for purposes they would not agree with or support. The potential misuse of this data highlights the urgent need for stringent data protection measures and ethical corporate governance.

Coles has a responsibility to its customers and the broader community to conduct its operations ethically and with integrity. We call on Coles to immediately cease their use of Palantir software and to implement comprehensive transparency measures regarding how they collect, store, and utilize customer and staff data. Additionally, Coles should publicly sever any associations that contribute, directly or indirectly, to human rights violations or military operations.

Evidence abounds on the importance of data privacy and growing public concern over how companies use and share personal data. Studies indicate increasing consumer demand for ethical business practices and a stronger stance on human rights is reshaping purchasing decisions across Australia.

By signing this petition, you are standing up for transparency, human rights, and ethical business practices. Join us in demanding that Coles take immediate action to protect the privacy of Australians and ensure their business practices do not inadvertently support conflict and human rights abuses. Your signature can help push for a responsible corporate environment and hold businesses to higher ethical standards. Please sign this petition to make a change.