The short version
The first steps are the same in every country: save the link, ask the site that runs the page, then use Google’s forms. What changes is who can help if the answer is no, such as a privacy regulator, a press council or, in Australia, eSafety.
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Old news stories
Ask the publisher for an update, a correction or anonymisation. If they’re a Press Council member, you can complain there after trying them. The Privacy Act generally doesn’t cover news reporting by media organisations.
People-search and data sites
Businesses that trade in personal information are generally covered by the Privacy Act, whatever their size. Ask them to correct or remove your details, and complain to the OAIC if they don’t deal with it within 30 days.
Threats, intimate images and children
eSafety can act quickly on serious online abuse, image-based abuse and harmful content about children. If you’re in danger, call 000.
Court records and copies
Spent-conviction schemes and non-publication orders vary by state. Legal Aid and community legal centres can tell you whether one applies before you write to a site that has copied a record.
Defamation
If something false is seriously harming you, talk to a lawyer soon. Claims generally have to be started within a year of publication, and most businesses with 10 or more employees can’t sue.
Questions
Is Fix My Name Online Australian?
Yes. It’s run by Madison Jade Pty Ltd, ABN 56 661 580 936, in South Australia. It’s a self-service tool, not a law firm.
Can I complain to the OAIC about a news article?
Usually not. Media organisations are generally exempt from the Privacy Act for journalism. The Press Council or the publisher is the better route.
Can anyone guarantee a result?
No. Publishers, platforms and Google make their own decisions. Be wary of anyone who promises a removal or a ranking for money.
Fix My Name Online is a self-service tool, not a law firm, and this isn’t legal advice. Publishers, platforms and search engines make their own decisions; no one can promise a result. Need a lawyer?
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