Access to Information
The Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act) replaced the Freedom of Information Act 1989 on 1 July 2010. Members of the public can access government information in a number of ways under the GIPA Act, sometimes without even having to ask. The GIPA Act provides four ways for government information to be released:
1. Open access information
We must disclose certain information, known as open access information unless there is an overriding public interest against disclosure.
2. Proactive release
Apart from open access information, the City releases as much other information as possible free of charge or at the lowest possible cost. We review the information we release every 12 months and publish as much as possible on our website.
3. Informal release of information
Members of the public may contact us and ask for information. This is known as an informal request. We may release information informally, subject to any reasonable conditions.
When submitting your request, it is important that you provide an accurate description of the information you are seeking access to. Requests must be for specific information or groups of documents, not 'all documents' in a broad category.
You can submit a request by email or fax, or in person. For Council's contact details click here. If you have any questions about the process please contact:
Information Access Management team
Tel: 02
9265 9333
Email: Council
Download
- Informal Access to Information Request Form | PDF 166Kb
4. Formal access application for release of information
If information cannot be accessed through any of the above ways, a formal access application may be necessary. This should be a last resort under the GIPA Act, and only necessary if you are asking for a large volume of information, if providing access would involve an extensive search, or if the information you seek involves personal or business information about third parties who must be consulted before the information can be released.
Applications must be in writing, and accompanied by a $30 fee. Processing charges of $30 per hour may also be levied, depending on the type and amount of information sought.
Download
- Formal Access Application form | PDF 330Kb
Further Information
- Contact us
- Refer to the GIPA Act
- Refer to the Office of the Information Commissioner's website, email oicinfo@oic.nsw.gov.au or telephone 1800 463 626
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