Automated Decision-Making and FOI Transparency: What Agencies Need to Know
Published in January 2026, the report reviews 23 agency websites to assess how effectively they communicate their use of ADM through the Information Publication Scheme (IPS). With ADM now widely embedded across service delivery areas such as social services, migration, biosecurity, and aged care, transparency is becoming increasingly critical.
What is ADM?
Automated decision-making refers to the use of technology or computer programs to make or support decisions that may impact individuals. As agencies adopt these tools at scale, clear communication about how they are used is essential to maintain public trust.
Key Findings
The review highlights a significant gap between adoption and transparency:
- All 23 agencies published IPS information
- Only 17% clearly disclosed their use of ADM
- 9% were likely using ADM but had not disclosed it
- 74% could not be identified as using ADM through public information
These findings indicate that while ADM is in use, it is not consistently or clearly communicated to the public.
Why This Matters
Transparency under the FOI framework is fundamental to open government. When agencies fail to disclose how decisions are made, particularly those supported by automated systems, it can undermine accountability and public confidence.
For records and information management professionals, this reinforces the importance of governance frameworks that ensure:
- Accurate documentation of decision-making processes
- Clear publication of policies and procedures
- Alignment with legislative requirements
Recommendations
The OAIC recommends that agencies strengthen their approach to ADM transparency by:
- Developing and publishing clear policies and procedures
- Ensuring ADM use is disclosed within IPS obligations under section 8(2) of the FOI Act
- Proactively sharing operational information to support public understanding
The Takeaway
As ADM continues to evolve, so too must the governance frameworks that support it. This report serves as a timely reminder that transparency is not optional. It is a core requirement for building trust, ensuring accountability, and demonstrating responsible use of technology in government decision-making.
For R&IM professionals, the message is clear: robust information governance is essential to bridging the gap between innovation and transparency.