David Vaile became the Cyberspace Law and Policy Centre's first executive director in 2002. He coordinates the Centre's support for ARC research projects such as Unlocking IP, Interpreting Privacy Principles and Regulating Online Investing, and teaches Cyberspace Law and Law in the Information Age. His background in law, IT and communications includes legal research (Legal Aid NSW), data protection (Privacy Commissioner's Office), pro bono, public interest and test case litigation (Public Interest Advocacy Centre), a virtual community for advocates (with the Law Foundation of NSW), organisational governance, database development, and online professional education.
His research interests in cyberspace law and policy include privacy and data protection, IT security, jurisdiction online, copyright and digital intellectual property, e-health, risk management and user-centred design. He is also a member of the Information Security World Advisory Board, and the board of the Australian Privacy Foundation.