- Natalia Kacperek has been appointed as the new Western Australian Chief Data Officer
- Will build public sector capability to responsibly share and use information for community benefit
- Appointment brings valuable experience and knowledge to the role, ensuring effective leadership of the sector
A recognised expert in driving strategic use of government information has been appointed as the Western Australian Chief Data Officer.
Natalia Kacperek, a leader in the field of data sharing and artificial intelligence (AI) governance, brings to the role a breadth of experience in facilitating the use of data to address complex social, health, environmental, and economic issues in the public interest.
Ms Kacperek has held the position of Acting Chief Data Officer since October 2023, where she was responsible for establishing PeopleWA, an asset which links data from multiple agencies to inform research and government decision making, and for driving the development of the AI Policy and Assurance Framework in WA.
Her appointment follows the commencement of provisions in the Privacy and Responsible Information Sharing Act 2024 (PRIS Act) that establish the Chief Data Officer role to oversee and drive implementation of the responsible information sharing framework.
As Chief Data Officer, Ms Kacperek will foster public sector capability building to responsibly share information that will improve community outcomes in health, education, and planning, while upholding international best practice and privacy standards.
Ms Kacperek's work will align with the work of Annelies Moens, Western Australian Information Commissioner, overseeing privacy and freedom of information matters.
As stated by Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Ms Kacperek's extensive expertise in data sharing and artificial intelligence governance will be instrumental in strengthening our public sector's ability to responsibly harness information for the benefit of our communities.
"Her proven track record, including the successful establishment of PeopleWA and leadership in developing the AI Policy and Assurance Framework, demonstrates her commitment to upholding the highest standards of privacy and security.
"In today's digital age, safeguarding the privacy and security of personal data is paramount. Ms Kacperek will ensure that all information sharing across government agencies strictly adheres to international best practice outlined in the PRIS Act."
