Access to Information
The Western Australian Freedom of Information Act 1992 (the FOI Act) gives you the right to apply for access to documents held by State Public Sector agencies which include: Government Departments; Local Authorities; Statutory Authorities and Ministers.
Agencies are required to assist the public in obtaining access to documents at the lowest reasonable cost, and to ensure that personal information held is accurate, complete, up to date and not misleading. Your right to apply is not affected by any reasons you have for wishing to obtain access or the agency’s belief as to what your reasons are for applying.
Information Statement
The Information Statement is published by the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 1992. It is a requirement that the Shire prepare and publish an annual Information Statement outlining the means to access information, the types of information held by the Shire and if that information:
- Is Open Access information that is readily available? If it is, the statement will advise where and how you can source the information;
- Can be disclosed to you through ‘informal release’. For example, where no third party personal information is involved; or
- Requires a “formal access application’. For example, when consultation with a third party is required.
The Information Statement includes information regarding the Shire’s mission, structure, decision-making functions and legislation administered, as well as documents held by the Shire and outlines the procedure for Freedom of Information (FOI) applications. The information contained in the document is correct as of November 2016.
Freedom of Information – Formal Application
Members of the public are entitled to have access to the majority of council documents.
Inspection of council documents is generally free, although reasonable fees may apply for the time required to access and retrieve the documentation and for the reproduction of documentation as required.
The Information Statement includes a full outline of the Freedom of Information process and the procedures for determining access and exemptions.
Council will provide a general right of access to documents and records of Council in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 1992, Local Government Act 1995 Section 5.94 and the Local Government Administration Regulations 1996.
To access the Freedom of Information application form, click here.
Further information about making Freedom of Information application can be found at the Office of the Information Commissioner website.