Privacy Experts Join Information Commissioner Office
Two lawyers with expertise spanning privacy, information law and data breaches have been appointed as Deputy Commissioners within the Office of the Information Commissioner.
They join a newly formed office, created after the passing of the Western Australian Government’s Privacy and Responsible Information Sharing Act 2024, which establishes how WA government agencies and other regulated entities handle personal information and de-identified information.
The legislation provides assurance to Western Australians that the Cook Government is managing their personal information responsibly and securely.
Nina Skewes has been appointed as the Privacy Deputy Commissioner and Patrick Ky takes on the role of Information Access Deputy Commissioner.
Ms Skewes brings a wealth of privacy expertise from the public and private sector. This includes leading privacy programs and responses to data breaches across the Asia Pacific region.
Most recently, she has served as the Asia Pacific chief privacy officer and regulatory legal counsel for a global professional services company. Ms Skewes brings strong legal and economic credentials to the role.
Mr Ky brings significant expertise in information law, organisational governance and public sector integrity. He has also led transparency and accountability initiatives, including reforms across multiple jurisdictions.
Most recently he served as senior assistant state solicitor at the State Solicitor’s Office in Western Australia. Mr Ky has strong legal capability along with public sector knowledge and scientific credentials.
Western Australian Information Commissioner, Annelies Moens was appointed in July 2025.
The Deputy Commissioners will support her in the delivery of the Office’s freedom of information and privacy functions, as well as prepare for the commencement of the PRIS Act in July this year.
Ms Skewes will commence her role on 27 January and Mr Ky on 23 February.
As stated by Attorney General Dr Tony Buti:
“The Office of the Information Commissioner is making sure there is a balance between the public’s right to information and the rights of individuals to privacy.
“The Cook Labor Government is committed to making sure that balance remains through the Commissioner’s oversight.
“I congratulate Ms Skewes and Mr Ky on their appointments.”
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook Labor Government/Experts-in-privacy-and-governance-appointed-to-Office-of-the-Information-Commissioner-20260123
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