The Government Chief Data Steward (GCDS) convened a Data Ethics Advisory Group to help maximise the opportunities and benefits from new and emerging uses of data, while responsibly managing potential risk and harms.
The Group will enable government agencies to test ideas, policy, and proposals related to new and emerging uses of data. It will also provide advice on trends, issues, areas of concern, and areas for innovation it becomes aware of.
Expertise across the group represents the following areas:
Guidance from Data Ethics Advisory Group
The following papers have been prepared on behalf of the Government Chief Data Steward for the Data Ethics Advisory Group. The issues canvassed should not be considered reflective of the position of any specific government agency (including Stats NZ).
These papers are not official New Zealand government policy.
Discussion Paper: An international example of Data Ethics Advisory
This paper discusses the National Statistician’s Data Ethics Advisory Committee (NSDEC) operating in the UK which is supported by the UK Statistics Authority (UKSA). This paper explores practices of the committee and the support team (particularly triage and engagement) which may be relevant to the function of the Group as it matures.
Discussion Paper: International Data Ethics Frameworks
This paper discusses the current landscape of data ethics frameworks, which includes artificial intelligence, and explores common themes which are particularly relevant to the function of the DEAG. The focus is on the benefits and considerations of frameworks.
The Algorithm assessment report (published in October 2018) recommended that consideration be given to ways in which agencies ensure human rights, privacy, and ethics are considered when developing algorithms, and that agencies embed a Te Ao Māori perspective, where appropriate.
The Group will assist agencies to meet those recommendations.
Data Ethics Advisory Group members
Terms of membership [PDF 143 KB]
Terms of reference [PDF 411 KB]
If you have any questions or feedback, email datalead@stats.govt.nz.
Content last reviewed: 17 February 2025