Process

There is no time limit set in the FOI Act for the conduct of an external review. However, reviews are resolved as promptly as possible and according to the resources of Ombudsman SA.

There is no particular manner in which a review may be conducted. As the agency carries the burden of justifying the determination, it is usual for the agency to be provided with a formal notice of external review and a report to be sought. The Ombudsman also seeks from the agency copies of the documents which are the subject of the determination.

Ombudsman SA may engage in telephone contact, conferences or receive written submissions from any of the parties during the review.

Ombudsman SA endeavours at all times to be completely fair to all parties in a review and to give each party adequate opportunity to present its case.