Accessing Commonwealth Government Information
This factsheet provides information on how to access information held by the Commonwealth Government. It is useful for anyone who wants to apply for information or seek a review of a decision made to withhold access to information.
Summary
Key takeaways
Public access to information held by government departments is important in promoting open, accountable government. Access to Australian Government information is governed by the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) (FOI Act). The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) is responsible for ensuring the objectives of the FOI Act and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act) are achieved.
The OAIC can provide advice directly to the community about accessing information. The OAIC is led by the Australian Information Commissioner (the Information Commissioner). The OAIC is independent of other government agencies. The role of the Information Commissioner is to promote public awareness and understanding of the FOI Act, and provide information, support, advice, assistance and training to agencies and the general public. The OAIC also has the power to review decisions made by government agencies and to deal with complaints.
Key actions
Visit: The OAIC website for more information: Make a freedom of information request | OAIC.
