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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

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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.

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Further Information

 


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To view PDF files you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. Get Acrobat Reader Now. PDF Accessibility.


 


To view PDF files you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. Get Acrobat Reader Now. PDF Accessibility.


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Last Updated: Friday 8 July, 2011

Please Note:
While care is taken to ensure accuracy, the City of Sydney cannot guarantee that information expressed here is correct and recommends that users exercise their own skill and care with respect to its use. The City of Sydney makes no warranty or undertaking, whether expressed or implied, nor does it assume any legal liability, whether direct or indirect.