FOI review recommends online system as reform options published
The report on freedom of information laws prepared by former diplomat Dr Allan Hawke AC has made a series of recommendations to improve FOI legislation, including the adoption of an online system to enable agencies and applicants to monitor FOI work.
Allan Hawke
Reforms to FOI implemented in 2009 and 2010 did not address the remaining issues identified by Hawke.
Attorney general Mark Dreyfus QC said the further reforms recommended by Hawke represented “fine tuning" of the system.
“The Review recommends the OAIC consider establishing an online system which enables agencies and applicants involved in a specific FOI review or FOI complaint investigation to monitor progress of the review or complaint,” the report states.
“Legislative and administrative changes to streamline FOI procedures, reduce complexity and increase capacity to manage FOI workload both by agencies and the OAIC are recommended. The Review also recommends changes and adjustments to the operation of the exemptions, fees and charges, and coverage of specific agencies. In making these recommendations, the Review focused on ensuring that the right of access to government information remains as comprehensive as possible.”
Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus QC said in response: “This is an important report which finds that recent changes to freedom of information law are broadly working well to improve transparency but it also identifies areas requiring fine-tuning for further reform.”
He added: “The report highlights the need to ensure that the right of access to government held information remains as comprehensive as possible.”
Forty recommendations for reforms are listed in the report, inlcuidng reviews to fees and charges.
“The Government is examining Dr Hawke’s recommendations carefully and will respond once it has had an opportunity to give them appropriate consideration,” Mr Dreyfus said.
The report can be read here.