News: Report on the operation of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009: 2015 - 2016
The NSW Information Commissioner, Elizabeth Tydd, today released the 2015/16 Report on the operation of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act).
The Report examines the performance of over 200 government agencies, offers insights for policy makers and agency heads, and promotes greater transparency for the community.
“The 2015-16 Report confirms a 14% increase in information access applications and recognises the increasing importance citizens are placing on their right to information,” said Ms Tydd.
“Pleasingly, the Report shows that citizens are gaining access to information more quickly.
“The Report also evidences that redoubled efforts are required to proactively release information, including government contracts, to realise the full intent of the GIPA Act and fulfil the commitment to Open Government.
“Application to the Information Commissioner is now the preferred channel for review of agency decisions, with the IPC conducting 47% of all reviews.
“This outcome reflects improved timeliness and service standards by the IPC, notwithstanding an increasing workload, and ensures that, as Information Commissioner, I have greater visibility over agency performance.
“There remain some challenges to ensuring faster and easier access to government information in NSW.
“I am committed to ensuring that we realise the benefits of Open Government and promote responsible stewardship by the government sector. The forward focus for the IPC includes monitoring and building a culture of accountability to drive commitment by agencies, continuing to lead national efforts to measure the effectiveness of information access regimes and apply that knowledge to promote an enhanced information access regime in NSW.”
