The Qantas breach proves personal data is toxic waste

Another data breach, this time from Qantas, shows again that the capture and proliferation of personal data across businesses needs a rethink. We need to assume data breaches will happen, let go of the illusion of perfect security, and design accordingly.

Published: Wednesday, July 2nd 2025

6 mins (1.4k words)

Article archive - page 1

  • AI, incentives and power in 2026

    The AI hype is over, and the industrial reality has begun. Here are some predictions for 2026, from the rise of disposable software to potential clashes over worker rights.

  • Strategy is still a human activity

    A week of deep strategy work with clients highlights the uniquely human capabilities that we need to keep as businesses transition to using more AI within the enterprise and across their workforces.

  • Hands on with Gemini CLI

    Google's new Gemini CLI arrived, so I had a play with some real dev tasks. At a first glance, it brings google on par with the other players in this space but even with a mega 1M-token context window, it doesn't change the status quo that much.

  • When does travel planning get seriously upended by AI?

    AI is everywhere in the travel industry - just not where most travellers see it. Chatbots can churn out a basic itinerary, but true AI-native trip planning has a much higher bar to clear. Personalised recommendations and seamless bookings may still feel out of reach, but we might be closer to change than it seems.

  • After the drought: first shoots emerge for Australian retail

    After a tough few years, Australian retail is showing the first signs of stability. Challenges remain, but recent data suggests consumers are more confident, spending is increasing, and the drought may finally be coming to an end.

  • Software engineering reimagined for the AI-Native era

    AI is redefining the software development process. By viewing development through a lens of problem-solving rather than code creation, engineers can focus on outcomes and value generation - not just lines of code.

  • Follow me. I know what I'm doing... (I think)

    Stepping suddenly from practice to enterprise leader can be daunting. This talk, given at WDC Leaders 24 explores how to navigate one of the most significant career transitions you'll ever make.

  • Now or never: harnessing growth opportunities in retail

    Amidst a wave of layoffs in the tech sector, retail and consumer businesses have a unique chance to leverage cutting-edge technology and talent, creating an opportunity for growth and innovation.

  • AI in 2023 - it works well enough now

    After attending the Web Directions AI conference, it's clear 2023 brings significant advancements in AI. Yet, as its potential grows, challenges in interaction models and ethical considerations persist.

  • ChatGPT and Generative AI in the enterprise

    There is a lot of opportunity for Generative AI from a business technology perspective. Talking with other technology leaders, we discuss what risks and rewards may exist.