Victorian Auditor-General's Office

Appendix B. Audit Act 1994 section 16—submissions and comments

Introduction

In accordance with section 16(3) of the Audit Act 1994 a copy of this report was provided to the Department of Business and Innovation, the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, the Department of Health, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Justice, the Department of Planning and Community Development, the Department of Premier and Cabinet, the Department of Primary Industries, the Department of Sustainability and Environment, the Department of Transport, the Department of Treasury and Finance and Victoria Police with a req

5. Victoria Police

At a glance

Background

This audit conducted a detailed analysis of Victoria Police freedom of information (FOI) processes and performance. Victoria Police received 2 381 requests in 2010–11, or 47 per cent of the 12 audited agencies’ FOI requests. Of the 2 381 requests, 79 per cent were personal requests.

1. Background

1.1 Introduction

Openness, accountability and transparency are fundamental principles of democratic government. The Freedom of Information Act 1982 (the Act) was designed to promote these principles in the Victorian public sector by giving the public the right to access government information.

The second reading speech of the Freedom of Information Bill advised Parliament that:

Audit summary

Background

Freedom of information (FOI) is a cornerstone of a thriving democracy. FOI upholds the public’s fundamental right to access information held by the government. The community’s ability to scrutinise public sector activities and hold the government of the day accountable for its decisions is affected by the transparency and accessibility of government information.

Freedom of Information

Body
This audit examined the 11 Victorian government departments and Victoria Police to determine the extent to which they comply with the Freedom of Information Act 1982 and FOI guidelines. The audit also assess whether FOI is administered effectively and efficiently in selected agencies.
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