The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) has introduced a new statistics dashboard designed to enhance public access to data about Australia’s freedom of information (FOI) system. This innovative tool provides key FOI data reported by Australian Government agencies and ministers, updated quarterly, to offer greater transparency and insight into how the FOI system operates. The dashboard aims to help government bodies, media, and the public better understand the volume and types of FOI requests received, as well as how effectively agencies are meeting their obligations under the Freedom of Information Act 1982.
Australia’s Freedom of Information Commissioner emphasised the importance of public access to government information. The dashboard allows users to view the overall performance of the FOI system and individual agencies over a five-year period, making it easier to analyse trends, benchmark performance, and identify areas for improvement.
Alongside the dashboard, the OAIC released a report and blog detailing the results of a survey of FOI practitioners. The survey revealed significant gaps in agencies’ FOI practices, including the fact that only 29% of agencies have an integrated records management system, and just 22% have comprehensive document management policies covering all forms of records. Additionally, while 26% of agencies use case management systems for FOI requests, the majority (63%) rely on basic spreadsheets or static records.
The OAIC’s initiatives align with its broader goals of promoting open government, improving FOI regulatory effectiveness, and enhancing agency FOI culture and capability. By making data more accessible and identifying systemic challenges, the OAIC aims to foster a more transparent and efficient FOI system that better serves the Australian community.
