What is GIPA?

The Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (known as the GIPA Act) came into effect on July 1, 2010 and replaces the Freedom of Information Act (FOI) and Section 12 of the Local Government Act 1993.

How does it affect me?

The aim of the GIPA Act is to provide an open, accountable, fair and effective government. This means that government agencies in NSW are  required to make more information freely available, and more processes and documents of Government will be available following an application process.

How do I access information?

There are four ways to access Council information:

• Mandatory release:Certain information that must be disclosed is available on Council's website free of charge. This includes policy documents, current publication guide, disclosure log and register of government contracts. Either search the website or use the Publications Matrix to locate required information.

• Proactive release: 
  In addition to the information contained on our website, Council is encouraged to release as much government information as possible, in an appropriate way and free of charge (or at the lowest reasonable cost). Using the Publications Matrix, locate the type of information that you are looking for to see how that information will be available.

• Informal request:
   If the information you're after in the Publications Matrix then you can ask for specific information by completing the Informal Access to Information application form.

• Formal application:If you have been unable to get the information you need in any other way. You can formally request specific information by completing the Formal Access to Information Application Form.

Who can ask for information?

Anyone can ask for Council information including:

• members of the public wanting to get access to general information
• individuals wanting to know what information is held about them in a file
• organisations helping people access their information
• academics doing research
• special interest groups seeking information
• media agencies obtaining information for stories/reports
• government agencies seeking information from another government agency.

Why do people request information held by government?

People/organisations/groups/agencies request information for a variety of reasons including to:

• obtain personal information
• support a legal case
• conduct research and analysis
• publish reports and media stories
• ensure transparent and accountable government.