Information From Government in NSW

Public access to information held by government departments and local councils is important in promoting open, accountable government.  Government Departments usually have a freedom of information officer or contact point which are a good starting point. Sometimes the information you are looking for may have been released already. A lot of information is available on Government […]

Read More… from Information From Government in NSW

Information From Parliament in NSW

Parliament can be an excellent source of information Hansard Hansard is the official record of Parliamentary proceedings. Although not strictly word for word, it is verified and accurate. These edited transcripts document debates in the Senate, House of Representatives, Federation Chamber and Parliamentary Committees at the national level; and in the Legislative Council and Legislative […]

Read More… from Information From Parliament in NSW

How Are Laws Made in NSW

The process for making laws, or the legislative process, is similar for both the NSW and Australian systems For a thorough explanation of how laws are made, visit the Parliament of NSW website or the Parliament of Australia website. The Making of an Act A Bill is draft version of an Act of Parliament (a law) before it […]

Read More… from How Are Laws Made in NSW

Holding Decision Makers To Account in NSW

Decision-makers sometimes make mistakes.  There are a number of options available to the public to help ensure due process is observed and decision-makers are held accountable for their actions. Auditors-General Australian Auditor-General The Australian Auditor-General provides an independent assessment of Australian government entities, and is supported by the Australian National Audit Office. Audits involve the independent […]

Read More… from Holding Decision Makers To Account in NSW

Legal Resources and Research in NSW

This resource summarises the main rights, responsibilities and opportunities to participate under both State and national legislation. If you would like further detail about a particular area of law, you may wish to do some legal research Legislation There are many pieces of legislation relating to the environment in NSW. This website deals with the […]

Read More… from Legal Resources and Research in NSW

Legal Information Access Centre

For assistance with legal research, consider contacting the Legal Information Access Centre (LIAC)  LIAC is a specialist information service run by the State Library of NSW and is free for NSW residents. LIAC provides legal research assistance through specialist librarians based at the State Library. Sydney LIAC’s Head Office in the NSW State Library holds a […]

Read More… from Legal Information Access Centre

Influencing the Decision in NSW

Before having your say about a decision, it is important to figure out who the decision-maker is. It is important to be clear on what you are being invited to participate in. Is the decision-maker trying to inform you, consult with you, collaborate with you, or engage with you? Government decisions are required to be […]

Read More… from Influencing the Decision in NSW