New South Wales

Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009

No 52

Open Records Transparency: 55/100 (moderate) Transparency Score: 55/100

RTI Rating: 83 (source)

Response Timeline

Initial Response
20 days

Working days. Can pause clock for consultations.

How to Submit a Request

Accepted Methods

  • Email
  • Mail
  • Online form
  • In person

Must be in writing. $30 application fee for formal requests.

Fees

Application fee: $30 (waived for financial hardship). Processing: $30/hour (first hour free).

Fee Waivers

  • Applicant experiencing financial hardship
  • Special public interest benefit

Application fee must be waived if applicant declares financial hardship.

Exemptions

  • Cabinet Documents
    Cabinet information
  • Responsible Government
    Information affecting responsible government

Public interest test built into most exemptions.

Appeal Process

1

Agency Internal Review

Internal review by agency. $40 fee.

2

Information Commissioner

Free external review by Information Commissioner

3

Civil and Administrative Tribunal

NCAT appeal on merits

GIPA Act includes proactive disclosure obligations.