Westpac confesses to charging thousands of deceased customers, ASIC sues

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has launched legal action against Westpac regarding allegations of “poor systems, poor processes and poor governance”. The filings also address claims that Westpac charged over 11,000 deceased customers for advice fees. ASIC has filed six court cases against Westpac for alleged maladministration impacting customers. Westpac has since admitted…

WHO says Omicron poses “very high” risk, makes recommendations

The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that the Omicron coronavirus variant presents a “very high” risk to global health due to potentially increased rates of transmission. The Omicron variant presents a high likelihood of wider transmission, says WHO in a technical brief published this past weekend. Much is unknown about the variant, although a significant…

Revenue NSW “unlawfully” used automated process to collect debts, says Ombudsman

An investigation into NSW’s debt collection agency found that it had abused its automated system to collect outstanding debts from vulnerable people. The state Ombudsman found that Revenue NSW’s use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning was unlawful. NSW Ombudsman Paul Miller calls for “greater transparency” and accountability for agencies relying on AI and…