What is data ethics?

Data ethics is about doing the right thing with how we use data that relates to our customers, colleagues and the community.

Our Data Ethics Principles

Our Data Ethics Principles set out how we should responsibly use data and guides how we use data in analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI) and sharing with third parties.

Our principles have evolved over time to ensure they are relevant to emerging technologies and to maintain alignment with shifts in customer and community standards and expectations. Instead of merely focusing on completing the minimum number of activities required for compliance, NAB's position on data ethics takes a human rights-based approach and shows commitment to implementing the best practice for our customers, colleagues and the community.

This table explains our Data Ethics Principles and how we collect and use data ethically.

Data Ethics Principle 1 We use data to benefit and serve our customers, colleagues, and community.
Data Ethics Principle 2 We protect individuals and groups against use of their data that is unjust, furthers inequality, or causes harm.
Data Ethics Principle 3 We are transparent about the use of AI to facilitate or make decisions that have a significant impact on people’s lives.
Data Ethics Principle 4 We maintain the capability for human oversight of, and timely intervention in, AI facilitated decisions.
Data Ethics Principle 5 We give preference to commercial partners and service providers that collect and use data ethically.
Data Ethics Principle 6 We obtain the informed consent of customers and colleagues for any sharing of their data with third parties for secondary commercial uses.
Data Ethics Principle 7 We ensure accountability for ethical data use throughout our organisation.

Data ethics

Important information