The New South Wales government has blocked access to Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek over privacy and security concerns, with other Australian states also assessing potential risks. The move follows warnings from cybersecurity experts about the chatbot’s data storage in China and its compliance with government directives.
Several Western nations, including the United States, Italy, and Taiwan, have already taken steps to limit access to DeepSeek, citing potential security vulnerabilities. Australian officials are now closely monitoring developments, with federal agencies urging caution when using the platform.
NSW Blocks DeepSeek as Other States Begin Investigations
The New South Wales Department of Customer Service informed employees on 30 January that it had decided to block DeepSeek on government devices. In an internal memo, officials cited concerns over how the AI model processes data and its links to China’s regulatory framework.
The department confirmed that it was collaborating with other NSW agencies to address potential security risks. Meanwhile, the Victorian Department of Government Services has reportedly advised staff to avoid using DeepSeek, though no formal ban has been imposed.
Other state governments are taking varied approaches. The South Australian Chief Information Office is monitoring the platform alongside federal agencies, while the Tasmanian government has not introduced restrictions but maintains a policy of “safe and responsible use of AI.” In contrast, Queensland, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory have not provided formal responses regarding their stance.
Cybersecurity experts have urged caution, with Australian firm CyberCX warning that DeepSeek is “almost certainly subject to direction and control by the Chinese government.” The company recommended that government agencies, critical infrastructure providers, and businesses handling sensitive data strongly consider restricting access.
Global Scrutiny as Nations Implement Bans and Restrictions
The concerns over DeepSeek extend beyond Australia. The United States Department of Defense blocked access to the chatbot after reports that employees had connected to its servers in China. Similarly, the US Navy issued a warning citing security and ethical risks.
In Europe, Italy’s data protection authority halted access to DeepSeek, expressing dissatisfaction with the company’s handling of personal data. France, Ireland, South Korea, and the Netherlands are also conducting investigations into its privacy policies. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s government announced a ban on DeepSeek for official use, citing security vulnerabilities.
Despite growing international restrictions, Australian federal authorities have not yet implemented a ban. Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic acknowledged public concerns but stated it was “too early to jump to conclusions.” Treasurer Jim Chalmers also urged Australians to exercise caution when using the platform.
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) has not launched a formal investigation but is monitoring international actions “with deep interest.” The agency emphasised the need for a measured approach, suggesting that future investigations remain a possibility.
As concerns over data privacy and foreign influence grow, Australian authorities continue to evaluate their approach to AI technologies, with DeepSeek now at the centre of a broader debate on cybersecurity and digital sovereignty.
