Information Commissioner launches investigation into the timeliness of Freedom of Information in Victoria

Victorian Information Commissioner Sven Bluemmel has commenced an investigation into the timeliness of FOI in Victoria.

This own motion investigation is the first of its kind to be undertaken under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic) (FOI Act).

Delay in providing access to information is the most common complaint made to OVIC.

The investigation will examine the FOI practices of selected agencies to identify causes for delay in releasing government information. OVIC is reviewing data and complaint information to determine which agencies will be subject to investigation.

The Information Commissioner is inviting members of the public, who have experienced delays on FOI decisions to share their experience. Submissions are due by 13 October.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the Information Commissioner may submit a report for tabling in the Parliament, setting out any findings and recommendations to improve timeliness in FOI practices across Victoria. The investigation report and recommendations are expected to be completed in mid-2021.

For more information read our media release.