Elizabeth Tydd has been appointed the new Australian Information Commissioner.

Tydd, who is currently the Freedom of Information (FOI) Commissioner, will assume her new role on 16 August 2024. 

She succeeds Angelene Falk, who has held the position since 2018.

“This appointment is an honour that I accept with immense gratitude and a resolute commitment to leadership in promoting and protecting information access and privacy rights. Securing these fundamental human rights in our digital era is paramount,” Tydd said.

Australian Information Commissioner Angelene Falk praised Tydd's extensive regulatory background and leadership skills. 

“Commissioner Tydd’s extensive regulatory background brings a wealth of leadership and subject matter expertise. Commissioner Tydd has exceptional commitment to the protection and promotion of information rights and will play a significant role in advancing information access and privacy for all Australians,” Falk said.

Tydd's appointment marks a significant moment in a year that saw the introduction of a three-commissioner model aimed at enhancing the leadership structure within the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC). 

The Australian Government will soon begin the process of filling the now-vacant FOI Commissioner role through a transparent and merit-based selection process.

Prior to her appointment as FOI Commissioner, Tydd was CEO of the NSW Information and Privacy Commission from 2013 to 2023, where she also served as NSW Information Commissioner. 

Her earlier career includes a tenure as the Executive Director of the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing and various senior positions at the New South Wales Department of Fair Trading.

Tydd's leadership arrives at a crucial time as debates surrounding freedom of information and privacy intensify within Australia. 

Her predecessor, Angelene Falk, faced criticism during her term over issues of information access, prompting discussions about the need for a cultural shift within the APS regarding transparency.

“Public sector leaders and indeed all of the APS have a positive obligation for accountability - and you do that because of our democratic values,” Tydd remarked in March.