We recommend installing Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Opera to visit the site.
Freedom of information resources for the public
This section contains guidance and resources to help members of the public understand their information access rights under the Freedom of Information Act 1982.
Latest updates
Consultation on draft FOI Guidelines has been published Updated 06/12/2021
'DU2' and Department of Health (Freedom of Information) [2021] VICmr 309 (15 October 2021) has been published Updated 24/11/2021
FOI and COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions for members of the public has been published Updated 13/09/2021
TOP TASKS
How to make a freedom of information request
Information on how to request information held by a Victorian public sector organisation under the Freedom of Information Act 1982.
Find contact details of Victorian public sector agencies by searching this online agency database.
Make a freedom of information request
This page outlines how to request information held by a Victorian public sector organisation under the Victorian Freedom of Information Act 1982.
Exempt documents and information
Under the Freedom of Information Act, Victorian public sector agencies are required to provide access to documents requested unless there are exemptions. This page provides information about which documents are exempt or contain exempt information.
Make a freedom of information request online using the Victorian Government portal.
How to make an FOI request in Victoria - video
This video was developed for members of the public seeking to make an FOI request, and uses simple language to clearly explain how to make an FOI request in Victoria.
Access your health information - video
This video provides guidance on how members of the public can access their health records or how to request access to health records on behalf of someone else.
Request an amendment
This page provides information on the right to request a correction or amendment to a document that contains your personal affairs information.
Find an agency
Find Victorian public sector agency freedom of information contact details by searching this online agency database.
Request a review
This page provides more information on the right to apply to OVIC for a review if an agency or Minister has refused to grant access to information.
Make a complaint
This page provides an overview of how to make a complaint about actions taken or action failed to be taken by an agency or Minister under the FOI Act.
What to expect when requesting a review - video
This video was developed for members of the public who have requested, or are planning to request an FOI review by OVIC. It clearly explains OVIC's FOI review process.
What to expect when making a complaint - video
This video was developed for members of the public who have requested, or are planning to make an FOI complaint to OVIC. It clearly explains OVIC's FOI complaints process.
Apply for review at VCAT
This page provides an overview of when you can apply to VCAT for a review and of VCAT's reviews process.
FOI and COVID-19 FAQs
These FAQs were developed for members of the public and explain some of the impacts of processing FOI requests during the ongoing impacts of COVID-19.
Professional Standards
The Professional Standards outline how Victorian government agencies should respect the rights of members of the public to access government information, and administer the FOI Act consistently.