Data Passport

Making access to linked data easier, faster and safer through the Data Passport

Policy makers, data analysts and researchers in NSW face an onerous, inconsistent, and increasingly time-consuming process when requesting access to data. The main issues include:

• Data custodians have different requirements for determining whether an analyst can access data, and these requirements are not always clear
• As data custodians are siloed within different agencies, individuals must undergo multiple, repetitive checks every time they request access to an NSW government-held dataset
• Data application and approval processes, including ‘Safe Researcher’ training and assessment are largely manual, done via email and lack transparency and consistency, creating further delays and errors.

The Data Passport Portal addresses this issue by providing an online accreditation and application management system for individuals users to request access to government-held datasets. The Data Passport accreditation is issued by the NSW Data Analytics Centre and certifies someone as a safe and trusted user. It gives accredited users, such as researchers, expedited access to de-identified human services data and insights to work on approved projects for the public good. Both government and non-government users are eligible to apply for a Data Passport and to complete an online ‘Safe Researcher’ self-led training course and assessment at any time.

Achievements

Since the pilot implementation of the Data Passport Portal:

• 460+ individuals have been approved for Data Passports
• 450+ data request have been approved for access to Journey Lab Tools (interactive visualisation tools of aggregated linked datasets)
• 30+ analysts and researchers have successfully completed the online Safe Researcher Training Course.

Applicants include Class A (data analysts) and Class B (non-data analysts / discussants) across NSW Government and non-government researchers.

Engagement

The Data Passport was created in consultation with data partners from other NSW government agencies, including the Department of Communities and Justice and the Department of Education.

“I would like to commend your team for developing a valuable resource and framework for Data Practitioners in NSW. I particularly liked the IPAA BOL Safe Research Training program and will recommend the training to my colleagues for their professional learning” - Testimonial from a Senior Data Analyst, NSW Department of Education.

Department leading the project

NSW Department of Customer Service – DCS Policy, Strategy & Governance – Data Policy, Strategy, Governance and Evaluation | NSW Data Analytics Centre