Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information Act (1982) provides the public a legal right to seek access to documents in the Government's possession. Access is limited only by exemptions that protect essential public interests and the private and business affairs of people about whom departments and statutory authorities hold information.
Members of the public seeking access to documents that may be held by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade should lodge a formal Freedom of Information (FOI) application.
How to make an FOI application
The application must be made in writing, be accompanied by a $30.00 application fee (Please make cheques payable to "National Cashier - DFAT") and include a telephone number, a fax number (if available) and an address within Australia to which notifications are to be addressed.
Applications should be sent to:
The Director, Freedom of Information Section
Domestic Legal Branch
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
R.G. Casey Building, John McEwen Crescent
BARTON, ACT 0221
Queries
If you wish to ask a question about FOI, you may contact the FOI Section on tel: (02) 6261 3499 during normal working hours or email foi@dfat.gov.au. Alternatively, you may call the DFAT switch on (02) 6261 1111 who may direct your call to another staff member of the FOI Section.
Fees and charges
The department levies the applicable fees and charges imposed under the Freedom of Information Regulations (Fees and Charges). The Department may decide to remit, reduce or not impose fees and charges for any reason, including if grounds of financial hardship or general public interest can be established by the applicant.
Further queries regarding fees and charges may be directed to the FOI Section at the above address.
Further information on DFAT's handling of FOI
Further information about DFAT's handling of FOI applications may be found in the DFAT Annual Report 2005-06, Section 3.1.3.