Public Data

Public data is information collected or generated by the Australian Government. It includes demographic, location, health, education, economic, business and other information.  

Public data is a valuable national asset.  The use, re-use and sharing of public data can help us understand who we are, how we live and what we need to do to make Australia a more successful and prosperous nation. Making public data accessible will help unlock insights that can benefit Australian society. The Australian Government is committed to realising the full potential of public data and managing public data securely.

The Public Data Policy Statement provides a clear mandate for Australian Government entities to:

• optimise the use and reuse of public data,
• release non-sensitive data as open by default, and
• collaborate with the private and research sectors to extend the value of public data for the benefit of the Australian public.

The Data and Digital Branch aims to maximise the economic, social and environmental benefits of using public data, while maintaining a strong commitment to the privacy and security of information.

Our work helps to improve the way data is managed, shared and published for the benefit of everyone in Australia.

Our work is about making sure public data can be used to help develop and implement government policies and programs that benefit all Australians. We also work to find ways for public data to support innovation and productivity.