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ARTICLE · 09 JUNE 2024

Commonwealth's FOI laws: Provisions, challenges and practical advice

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To assist government departments and agencies to understand their key obligations in the FOI legislation.

AustraliaGovernment, Public Sector
Elizabeth Carroll
Elizabeth Carroll
Lachlan Speak
Lachlan Speak
Author LinkedIn connections

The Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) (FOI Act) is a cornerstone of administrative law measures to promote governmental transparency and accountability. By understanding and fulfilling their obligations under the FOI Act, Australian government agencies and departments can enhance public trust and demonstrate a commitment to an open government. Following a recent review of the FOI Act's operation, this article aims to assist departments and agencies in understanding their key obligations and ensuring the objectives of the legislation are met.

Key provisions and mechanisms

Key provisions and mechanisms in the FOI Act include:

Right of access

  • Right to access information: The FOI Act provides the public with a right to access documents held by government agencies, including both physical and electronic records.

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This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.

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