OMRI Speaker Series: Chief Data Officer Natalia Kacperek
OMRI Speaker Series explores the future of data sharing, privacy and AI in Western Australia
Researchers, policymakers, health professionals and government representatives gathered for the latest Office of Medical Research and Innovation (OMRI) Speaker Series event featuring Western Australia's Chief Data Officer, Natalia Kacperek.
The session explored the role of data linkage, privacy legislation and artificial intelligence in supporting research, policy development and service delivery across Western Australia.
Ms Kacperek provided an overview of the history and evolution of data linkage in Western Australia, which was pioneered in the 1990s to bring together person-level data from multiple agencies and support a better understanding of service use and outcomes. The presentation also examined the findings of a 2016 review of the state's data linkage system and the work undertaken since then to improve data access and coordination.
A key focus of the presentation was PeopleWA, a consolidated linked data asset developed through collaboration between government agencies and researchers. The session outlined how PeopleWA was established to streamline access to linked data and improve the use of government-held information for research and policy purposes.
The discussion also examined ongoing challenges associated with linked data, including limitations in accessing Commonwealth datasets and barriers to working with some data sources due to privacy requirements and legislative constraints.
Participants heard about the Privacy and Responsible Information Sharing (PRIS) Act and its role in establishing privacy principles while creating pathways for responsible information sharing. The session explored how the legislation supports data sharing between government, researchers, universities, Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and non-government organisations for research, policy and service delivery purposes.
Artificial intelligence was another key topic of discussion. Ms Kacperek outlined the WA Government's approach to AI governance, including the use of responsible AI principles, risk-based assessments and oversight mechanisms for high-risk projects. The importance of maintaining community trust through appropriate safeguards and governance frameworks was also highlighted.
The presentation concluded with discussion on future opportunities for data sharing and access, including the use of synthetic data, secure research environments, the availability of metadata and the potential integration of non-government organisation data into linked data assets.
A recording of the event is now available for those who were unable to attend or who would like to revisit the discussion.