In today’s print environment, privacy risks are often operational. Small errors can cause serious breaches, making strong data protection essential to protect clients, ensure compliance, and safeguard business reputation, according to Wal Abramowicz, managing director of Fox & Staniland Lawyers.
The printing industry has always handled sensitive information such as customer databases, government notices, and medical records. But as workflows become more digital and data-driven, privacy is no longer just an admin issue. It’s a business risk.
In Australia, any organisation dealing with personal information must comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). In simple terms, this means taking reasonable steps to protect personal data from misuse, loss or unauthorised access.
For printers, that requirement shows up in everyday operations.
Where things can go wrong
Privacy risks in print are often practical, not technical. Common pressure points include handling digital mailing lists and client data files; controlling who can access sensitive information; using secure file transfer systems; storing printed materials safely before dispatch; and destroying misprints and overruns properly.
It doesn’t take a cyberattack to create a breach. A stack of unattended personalised statements or a bin of unshredded misprints can be enough.
Small errors, big consequences
Under Australia’s Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) scheme, businesses must report data breaches likely to cause serious harm. That includes notifying both affected individuals and the regulator.
In a print environment, breaches often happen through simple mistakes such as documents sent to the wrong recipient; mailing lists accidentally shared; incorrect inserts in envelopes; and unauthorised staff accessing data.
Most incidents aren’t malicious—they’re operational. But the consequences are the same.
What counts as personal information?
Personal information is anything that can identify someone. That includes names and addresses; account or customer numbers; medical or financial details; and personalised marketing content.
Even if the data comes from your client, how you handle it still matters and can still create legal exposure.
How printers can reduce risk
Privacy protection doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does need to be built into your workflow. Things to consider include:
1. Lock down data handling: Use secure file transfer systems and restrict access to sensitive data.
2. Tighten quality control: Combine automated checks with manual verification, especially for mail merges and addressing.
3. Train your team: Make sure staff understand how to handle personal information – and the risks if they don’t.
4. Be ready for incidents: Have a clear data breach response plan so you can act quickly and meet reporting obligations.
Privacy in print isn’t just about compliance it’s about trust. Clients rely on printers to handle their most sensitive information safely. Getting it right protects your business as much as it protects their data.
This article was first published in the May-June 2026 edition of Print21, page 30.