NSW Information Commissioner launches independent research report to kick off international Right to Know Day 2015
NSW Information Commissioner Elizabeth Tydd has launched an independent research report into improving open government in NSW.
The report, commissioned through the University of Technology, Sydney provides an insight into the types of practical mechanisms utilised in selected international jurisdictions to promote open government through information sharing and citizen engagement.
“I am very pleased to launch this independent report on international Right to Know Day. One of the fundamental aspects of the report is considering the challenges and opportunities which arise for proactive information release by government. It provides examples of ‘best practice’ in open government which have been used around the world,” said Ms Tydd.
The report makes a practical examination of legislative and policy frameworks with the aim of advancing the objects of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act) via an international comparative evaluation. It also recognises leading international government rankings, including the United Kingdom which is a major driver in open government initiatives, with eight strategic mechanisms to encourage transparency, accessibility and responsiveness of government to better promote information release.
“To advance open government in NSW we need to identify ways in which we can improve how the government engages with its citizens in order to share information and data, and inform policy and services. The development of consultation techniques to encourage greater public participation in decision-making is essential if NSW is to progress its open government initiative. This will be a priority on my forward agenda,” said Ms Tydd.
To request an interview with Ms Tydd please contact Snezana Novakovic, (02) 8071 7021 or 1800 472 679.
