Consulting with OVIC
Victorian public sector organisations (organisations) subject to the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (PDP Act) and Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic) (FOI Act) are encouraged to consult with OVIC on:
- legislative proposals, draft Bills, regulatory instruments and policy proposals that have an impact on information privacy, information security or public access to information.
- new or updated programs or projects that involve:
- significant privacy impacts to the Victorian community
- whole of government initiatives, with an impact on information privacy, information security or information management
- complex information sharing or significant outsourcing of public services or functions
- a scheme that provides for access to information outside the usual FOI process.
Consulting with OVIC assists VPS organisations to develop appropriate policy and legislative outcomes that meet the objects of the FOI and PDP Act.
As an independent integrity agency, OVIC does not endorse or approve legislative reform or organisations’ programs or initiatives. OVIC provides feedback based on the information it receives from organisations and does not provide assurance that the program or initiative complies with the requirements of the PDP Act or FOI Act. OVIC’s comments do not constitute legal advice, and organisations may wish to seek their own legal advice in addition to considering OVIC’s feedback and guidance. Organisations should also note that implementing OVIC’s feedback does not preclude future regulatory action in the event that the information provided changes or is incorrect, or if there is legislative change to the PDP Act or FOI Act.
As an integrity agency for the Victorian public sector, OVIC cannot assist private entities. In some circumstances, OVIC may be able to work with private entities, such as where they are providing services to an organisation under a State contract, or running a consultation on behalf of an organisation.
When seeking to consult with OVIC, we ask that organisations allow sufficient time for OVIC staff and Commissioners to review relevant materials and prepare feedback. We understand that at times requests may be urgent. OVIC staff will work with organisations to determine appropriate timeframes for a response.
To request assistance from OVIC, please email enquiries@ovic.vic.gov.au and your request will be forwarded to the relevant team.
For general information privacy, information security or FOI queries, OVIC encourages organisations to refer to the educational resources and guidance available on OVIC’s website. General queries may relate to privacy impact assessments, privacy policies, the application of Victoria’s Information Privacy Principles, protective data security plans or the processing of an FOI request.
OVIC is always looking to improve the quality of its website resources. If you have feedback to share, please email enquiries@ovic.vic.gov.au.