Pocock says politicians using encrypted messaging apps damages ‘health of our democracy’

Independent senator David Pocock urged the government exercise ‘careful attention and prompt action’ to a report that urged better policies for encrypted messages between officials. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAP

Independent senator David Pocock says the use of encrypted messaging platforms by politicians to avoid scrutiny is damaging to Australian democracy, urging the government to act on recommendations from the information commissioner and the National Archives that such messages should be retained.

In a report on Wednesday from the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) and the National Archives, a survey of 22 government agencies found 16 allowed use of messaging apps, three did not allow their use, and three did not have a policy.