Second annual Allens Hub debate

This year, two teams of Allens lawyers argued their positions on Privacy vs Security, in the second annual Allens Hub debate. The topic was: enhanced government surveillance to ensure the security of Australians means we must sacrifice more of our privacy.  View a video or the debate here

The debate was moderated by Allens Managing Associate Elyse Adams and judged by an expert panel made up of Allens Hub Director Lyria Bennett-Moses, the Data protection and surveillance stream leader David Vaile, and Anna Collyer.

A lively exchange of arguments explored how drawing a distinct line between privacy rights and national security has become increasingly difficult as advances in technology create new threats to individuals, organisations and society.  

The affirmative team raised the issue of the right to privacy and it's need to be moderated. They also argued that our current laws need to be changed to keep up with the increase of technology and cyber-crime.

 Meanwhile the opposing team brought forward issues around data misuse and mass surveillance and ultimately claimed victory.