Overview
The Freedom of Information Act 1991 (FOI Act) gives people the right to be provided with information held by Government agencies unless the information is exempt from release.
In particular, you have a right of access to information about your personal affairs and you may have the records amended if the information about you is incorrect, incomplete, out of date or misleading.
If information is refused, you have the right to have the decision reviewed by the Secretary of the Department. If you are still dissatisfied, there is a right of review by the Ombudsman.
How to make a Freedom of Information request
A request for information under the FOI Act must be made in writing and contain sufficient details to enable the FOI Officer to identify the information sought.
FOI requests must also contain the applicant's name and contact details, including a postal address to which FOI notices can be sent and a contact telephone number if possible.
A FOI request should also be signed and dated.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to use an FOI request form to help ensure that the necessary details are provided. A copy of this form is available on the Department of Justice's website: www.justice.tas.gov.au/justice/foi_at_justice
Where to send the request?
Freedom of Information Officer
Department of Environment, Parks, Heritage and the Arts
GPO Box 771
HOBART TAS 7001
If another department or agency jointly or wholly holds the information requested, the Department may transfer your request to the department or agency best able to deal with it. You will be notified of the department or agency to which your request has been transferred.
Further Information
You can view the Freedom of Information Act 1991, the Freedom of Information Regulations 1991 and the Freedom of Information (Fees) Regulations 2004 online at www.thelaw.tas.gov.au. Hard copies can be purchased from the Printing Authority of Tasmania, 2 Salamanca Place, Hobart.