Issue No 42
 

FoI in NSW: A Future Update

Bruce Smith

This article looks at the 1991 - 1992 Ombudsman's Annual Report in New South Wales. It reproduces extracts from this report including - statistics about complaints received, comment on the absence of any central reporting function and the three most interesting case studies dealt with by way of formal investigation.

Also contains a chart summarising the nature and outcome of a further 61 complaints. Suggests that the ombudsman should be given statutory powers to require standardising of reporting by public authorities to assess their systems, practices and decisions under the Act. Case study one looks at the Corrective services and suggests the FoI fees regulations should be amended to limit charges, the imposition of time limits on agencies, raises the issue of whether photocopies of unwanted material can be refused and looks at the introduction of charges for additional time taken in planning and recovery.
 

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