As big tech companies race to build the most advanced AI technology in the world, our rights are vanishing. 

Default settings on devices allow for constant monitoring, tracking, and use of our data to train AI models without our clear consent or understanding.

For example, if you own an iPhone, you’ll discover that Siri is defaulted to learn from every app you use. Android’s Gemini does the same, meaning your personal use of apps (including MyGov, banking, and Compass), are under surveillance and being exploited.

Meta’s platforms (WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram), are the same: recording and learning from our personal relationships and interactions. Along with countless others. 

While they aid convenience, they’re breaching our privacy in unprecedented ways, paving a path where our most personal information could be used without our knowledge.

Australia’s current regulations around AI and digital privacy are insufficient. And our government’s slow response is allowing tech companies to exploit us.

Other countries, like the European Union with its General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), have enforced more robust data protection laws. 

We need Australia to follow suit by implementing comprehensive reforms to safeguard digital privacy immediately.

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This petition calls on the House of Representatives to introduce the following reforms:

1. Ensure all digital platforms, apps, and AI technologies operate transparently, with users fully informed about how their data is used and secured. This should not be hidden in terms and conditions, but advertised with clear instructions on how to find and opt out of surveillance. 

2. Mandate default settings that prioritise privacy, requiring explicit consent before any data collection or usage. Use of AI should always be opt-in, not opt-out.

3. Never allow tech companies, developers and AI systems to override privacy settings chosen by users who have denied access to data, cameras, microphones or activity history. 

4. Regular audits and assessments of digital technologies and their impacts on privacy, conducted by an independent body.

5. Introduce penalties for companies that fail to comply with these regulations, entitling victims to legal recourse.

This petition is a call for action to protect our rights to privacy in this digital age. Demand that the Australian Government take immediate, definitive steps to regulate artificial intelligence and digital privacy. 

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Let’s push for stronger legislative frameworks that prioritize citizen privacy and data security. Sign this petition to urge lawmakers to prioritise the digital privacy of all Australians and hold technology companies accountable for respecting our rights.