I am an individual researching my family history. Do I need to consider the Privacy Act in doing this?

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Question: I am an individual researching my family history. Do I need to consider the Privacy Act in doing this?

Answer: Generally no.

The Privacy Act does not apply to you as an individual if you are putting together your own family history. As well, the Privacy Act does not cover the personal information of deceased people.

If you employ a genealogist to research your family history they may have obligations under the Privacy Act. In this case they should refer to the FAQ on genealogists.