The federal government has launched a review of the Privacy Act, aiming to modernize how personal information is handled across more than 250 federal institutions.
Treasury Board President Shafqat Ali announced the review Thursday, saying the process will examine how government agencies collect, use, disclose and protect Canadians’ personal data.
First major update to Privacy Act in decades
The act, which has not seen major updates since it was introduced in 1983, sets the rules for how federal institutions manage personal information.
Ali said updating the legislation is key to maintaining public trust as government services become increasingly digital.
“Safeguarding the personal information of Canadians is essential to maintaining public trust,” he said in a statement. “Updating the Privacy Act will reinforce privacy protections and help ensure government institutions operate in a transparent and accountable manner in the digital age.”
Plans to expand secure data sharing across departments
Proposed changes include recognizing privacy as a fundamental right and aligning the law with international standards. The government is also considering measures to allow secure data sharing between departments when it benefits individuals or improves public services.
Officials say the review will also look at reducing duplication by establishing designated sources for key data and improving accuracy across programs.
A policy paper outlining the proposed changes has been released, with public feedback open until July 10. The government also plans to hold consultations with federal institutions and experts in the coming months.
A final report summarizing the findings is expected to be published in the winter of 2026–27.
The Privacy Act governs the public sector and is separate from federal private-sector privacy legislation.