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E-portfolios are becoming increasingly popular in the vocational education and training (VET) sector, however, if not managed well, may also have a significant impact on learner privacy. The Australian Flexible Learning Framework engaged Information Integrity Solutions Pty Ltd (IIS) to conduct a privacy impact assessment (PIA) of the use of e-portfolio systems in the VET sector. This PIA involved the consideration of e-portfolio service provider obligations arising from privacy law. As part of the PIA, an assessment of privacy risks associated with e-portfolios from the learner's perspective was undertaken, together with the consultation of key VET stakeholders who are currently implementing e-portfolio systems or who have related interests in the use of e-portfolios. Three key risk factors related to the handling of personal information in relation to the use of e-portfolio systems were identified: (1) the extent of learner-generated content; (2) learner control of access to e-portfolio content by third parties; and (3) the dynamic and online nature of e-portfolio systems. Recommendations to assist in the continuing development of sound privacy practices for e-portfolio service providers are made under the following areas: fair risk allocation; focus on learner education and support; user testing of guidelines; and use of third party service providers. Based on its analysis and conclusions of the PIA, IIS considers that guidance for e-portfolio service providers and RTOs in a number of areas may be relevant. These issues are considered further in the 'VET E-portfolio privacy draft guidelines'.

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E-portfolios are becoming increasingly popular in the vocational education and training (VET) sector. They are exciting and potentially powerful tools for learners: undertaking course work; collating evidence of skills and achievements; to assist in the recognition of prior learning (RPL); or when seeking employment. These draft guidelines have been developed for e-portfolio service providers (service providers) and managers of learner information (MLI) in the VET sector. They are intended to offer practical guidance and some tools to assist service providers to: comply with obligations under applicable privacy law and avoid compliance problems which could lead to the need for costly changes or for e-portfolio systems to be under-utilised; and assure learners that they are in control of the personal information held in an e-portfolio system and that this information will remain secure and confidential, thereby building trust and confidence, and therefore take-up, amongst learners.

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