Auditor-General's Independent performance audit on FOI Act 1982
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner has welcomed the release of the Australian National Audit Office and Auditor-General’s independent performance audit into the administration of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 by selected government entities.
The report highlights a number of opportunities to strengthen Freedom of Information (FOI) practices across government, particularly in the areas of timeliness, information handling, and compliance with the objects of the FOI Act. The findings reinforce the importance of effective records and information management in supporting transparency, accountability, and public trust.
For records and information management professionals, the audit serves as another reminder that strong governance frameworks, accurate recordkeeping, and accessible information systems are critical to meeting FOI obligations efficiently and effectively. Delays in locating information, inconsistent handling practices, and poor information accessibility can significantly impact an organisation’s ability to respond to requests within legislative timeframes.
As part of broader efforts to improve public awareness and information accessibility, Information Commissioners across Australia have also endorsed a new national information access icon. The initiative is designed to help the public more easily identify FOI and information access resources across government agencies and jurisdictions.
The OAIC has indicated it supports the recommendations and opportunities identified in the ANAO report and will consider the findings as part of shaping future regulatory strategy, guidance, and priorities. The report is expected to further influence conversations around information governance maturity, accessibility, and the role of proactive information management in strengthening public sector transparency.