Government to set up new data commissioner

The federal government has announced a $65 million data reform package, including setting up a National Data Commissioner.

A new national body will be established to oversee the sharing of government data.

The National Data Commissioner's role will be to organise a simpler system of sharing and releasing data, working with the Australian Privacy Commissioner.

"The Data Commissioner will make it easier for that data to be shared in a way that will safeguard the privacy of individuals, while delivering enormous benefits to the Australian population," Human Services Minister Michael Keenan said on Tuesday.