I was also under the impression this can be served to individuals without the knowledge of their employer, leaving the individual in a position where they can consult a single lawyer about the legality of the request and face jail time for discussing the request with anyone else (including employers).

I would need to re-read the act, but the gov website[1] indicates you are correct that these requests are served to organisations and not individuals excepting sole traders.

[1] https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/our-portfolios/natio...