Local governments can build public trust by respecting privacy rights and providing greater access to information

Regional Roadshow aims to improve awareness of FOI and privacy

As we emerge from COVID-19 restrictions, we know that community trust is essential to the successful development of public policy and the delivery of local government services.

The Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) is hosting a Regional Roadshow for local government organisations across Victoria to improve understanding of freedom of information (FOI) and privacy obligations, and to enhance public trust in government.

Following the success of a series of events targeting public sector staff across regional Victoria in 2022 OVIC is hosting a Regional Roadshow exploring “Navigating the intersection of FOI and Privacy” on Thursday 23 February 2023. Victorian government agency, public health service providers and local government representatives from across regional and rural Victoria are invited to attend.

“Local governments are deeply connected to their communities and rely on a social licence to operate. This social licence is built on public trust and transparency in government decision making” said Information Commissioner Sven Bluemmel.

“By providing members of the community with access to information and tools to protect their privacy, government agencies assist the public’s understanding of decisions affecting them. This could involve decisions around the development of a community sports facility, reducing the harm caused by a data breach or access to personal health information from a local hospital”.

The event will feature a keynote address from the Victorian Information Commissioner, along with a presentation from Kirsty Miller, Patient Information Release Unit Manager, Health Information Services, Barwon Health and Patricia Clive, Coordinator Governance, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and other speakers from OVIC’s Public Access and Privacy teams.

Government agencies can build public trust in government by upholding the public’s right to access information and promoting the protection of privacy rights. OVIC encourages all staff from Victorian government agencies across regional and rural Victoria to attend.

For media enquiries contact:

Simone Martin

t:   0466 097 816
e:  simone.martin@ovic.vic.gov.au or media@ovic.vic.gov.au

Background information:

• Register for OVIC’s FOI and Privacy Regional Roadshow on 23 February 2023
• Releasing Council information proactively and informally under the Local Government Act 2020 and the Freedom of Information Act 1982
• Privacy considerations for Local Government