for agencies

Sweeping reforms to New South Wales’ right to information system took effect on 1 July 2010 with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act) replacing the Freedom of Information Act 1989 (NSW).

The reforms are a direct response to the community’s desire for more transparency in government.

The new right to information law encourages government agencies to release more information than ever before.

By encouraging agencies to proactively release information, the new law ensures a more open and accountable system of government in NSW.

The new system also makes it easier for individuals to access government and personal information from state and local agencies.

The GIPA Act applies to all NSW government agencies, including government departments, Ministers and their personal staff, public authorities, public offices, local authorities, courts and persons or entities deemed to be an agency under the regulations.

The NSW Office of the Information Commissioner (OIC) is an independent body that has been established to promote public awareness and understanding of the new system, and provide advice, assistance and training to government agencies and the public.

With a Joint Parliamentary Committee providing oversight functions, the Commissioner also monitors agencies’ functions and may make proposals for legislative or administrative change. The Information Commissioner may also issue guidelines to assist agencies and the public on various matters, and has broad powers to investigate and conduct inquiries.

To assist agencies, the OIC has developed a range of tools and resources including frequently asked questions. To provide feedback on these resources or to suggest new material that may be useful for agencies, please contact the OIC on:

  • Free call number 1800 INFOCOM (1800 463 626)
  • Email: oicinfo@oic.nsw.gov.au
  • Postal address: GPO Box 7011 Sydney 2001
  • Visit our office at Level 11, 1 Castlereagh Street Sydney.