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ARTICLE · 10 OCTOBER 2022

Federal Freedom of Information scheme: What is it, and is it effective?

O'Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors
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The Freedom of Information Act 1982 gives individuals the right to access information in federal government agencies.

AustraliaGovernment, Public Sector
Peter O'Brien
Peter O'Brien
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How does Freedom of Information work at the Federal Level?

The Federal Freedom of Information Act 1982 ('FOI Act') gives individuals the right to access information held by federal government agencies.

This includes:

  • personal information they hold about you
  • information about government policies or decisions.

Any individual or organisation can make a request under the FOI Act. You must make requests in writing to the agency or minister who holds the requested document. There are no charges to make a request. However, agencies and ministers may charge you for the costs of processing your request.

What can you access under Federal Freedom of Information?

Under FOI, you can request access to documents held by Australian Government agencies or minister, including:

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