WA urged to develop WoG data linkage policy

The WA government has been urged to develop a whole-of-government approach to data sharing and institute a series of reforms to its current data linkage processes.

The government has released the findings of an expert panel’s review into the state’s data linkage capabilities.

The Data Linkage Expert Advisory Group’s report calls for the development of a whole-of-government model building on the state’s existing strengths in population health data linkage and research.

The group was chaired by WA Chief Scientist Professor Peter Klinken, and also comprised government CIO Giles Nunis, Telethon Kids founding director Professor Fiona Stanley, and Professors Bruce Armstrong and Louisa Jorm. The report was prepared in consultation with the research, non-profit and public sectors.

“Government agencies collect a multitude of data in the course of their daily operations and it is imperative we maximise this valuable resource. Linking datasets is a highly valuable tool for research and analysis across policy, legislation, investment, prevention and intervention measures,” Science Minister Dave Kelly said.

“I endorse the views expressed in the report that the state’s current data linkage system is a significant asset and the need for legislation that better enables the sharing of data whilst also ensuring that privacy is protected… A better understanding, sharing and appropriate use of data across government will be a key component of future reforms.”

He said the recommendations will feed into the government’s existing reform initiatives, including its commitment to developing state privacy legislation and its Service Priority Review.

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