Access to information is regulated by the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (‘GIPA Act’), which replaced the Freedom of Information Act 1989.
The GIPA Act provides an open and transparent process for giving the public access to information, and encourages the proactive release of information. It requires us to make information publicly available unless there is an overriding public interest against disclosure. This involves applying a public interest test.
There are four ways to access Council information.
1. Open access information
We are required to make certain information publicly available free of charge on our website. This includes policies, reports, agendas and development application information.
To access this information, visit our Open Access Information page.
2. Proactively released information
Council proactively makes a range of information publicly available on our website. We also regularly review information to see if it can be released.
3. Informal request
If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, you can apply for it by making an informal request. There is no application fee. A request may take up to 20 business days to process. Subject to any reasonable conditions, the information may be released informally. Decisions in relation to informal requests are not reviewable.
If your request relates to development applications or planning information (approvals, plans, assessment reports, certificates etc.), please see our Open Access Information page.
All other informal requests can made by emailing jsc@junee.nsw.gov.au or by letter.
4. Access application (formal)
If you can’t access the information through the above methods, you will need to complete a formal Access Application.
This may be the case where:
An application fee of $30 applies. We may also impose a processing charge of $30 per hour. Please refer to the fact sheet on fees and charges under the GIPA Act.
Access applications must be decided within 20 working days of receipt. However, the decision period can be extended in certain circumstances; for example, where third party consultation is required.
You will receive a formal notice of decision explaining why the information has or has not been released.
If access is refused, or you are not satisfied with the information received, you can seek a review of the decision through:
For more information about your review rights, please open the Fact Sheet. This external link will open in a new window.
Further information
If you have any questions about accessing information, please contact jsc@junee.nsw.gov.au or call 6924 8100.
For more information about the GIPA Act, please visit the Information and Privacy Commission’s website. This external link will open in a new window.