Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act 1991 (the FOI Act) gives any person the right of access to documents held by agencies and councils, subject to certain exceptions in the legislation. 

If a person makes an application to an agency or council and access to the information is not granted, the applicant normally has a right to seek an internal review by the Principal Officer/Chief Executive of the agency or council.  If access is still not granted then further rights of appeal and review exist either to the Ombudsman, and to the District Court.

Ombudsman SA has the power to investigate and conduct an external review of determinations by agencies and councils under the FOI Act.  We may confirm, vary or reverse the determination.  We may also review the fees and charges levied by agencies for access to documents under the Act.

Agencies covered by the Freedom of Information legislation include State Government Departments, councils, most State statutory bodies, Ministers of the Crown and Universities.

Please refer to the Freedom of Information section for more information and guidelines to requesting a review.