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Right to Information at SCU

Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 ("GIPA Act")

From 1 July 2010 the new Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 ("GIPA Act") replaces the Freedom of Information Act 1989 (NSW).

The object of the GIPA Act is to open government information to the public by:

  • authorising and encouraging the proactive release of government information by agencies
  • giving members of the public an enforceable right to access government information
  • providing that access to government information is only restricted when there is an overriding public interest against disclosure

GIPA Act application to SCU

A "government agency" is defined by the GIPA Act and covers, among other bodies, public authorities. A "public authority" encompasses bodies which are established or continued for a public purpose by or under the provisions of a legislative instrument. As the University was established by the Southern Cross University Act 1993 for public purposes, it falls under the defintion of a public authority and as such, is subject to the GIPA Act.

Accessing SCU Information

The GIPA Act establishes four ways to access government information:

  1. Mandatory Disclosure: obligatory publication of certain information on the University's website, free of charge.
  2. Proactive Release: release of information, in an appropriate manner and at the lowest reasonable cost.
  3. Informal Release: release of information in response to a person's informal request.
  4. Formal Access: release of information in response to a formal access application.

If you wish to make a formal request for information regarding the University please complete the Government Information Access Application Form below:

PDF Government Information Access Application Form

For detailed information regarding the University's obligations under the GIPA Act and accessing information please consult the FAQs: FAQ- Right to Information

Right to Information Officers

Right to Information Officers (RIOs) are University staff members who have been given authority and responsibility for the management of the University's obligations under the GIPA Act.

The range of tasks that may be assigned to RIOs include:

  • Processing and making decisions about formal information access applications
  • Assisting with the routine publication of open access information
  • Working with SCU staff to provide training, support and advice to staff in relation to the proactive and informal release of information
  • Working on SCU's response to reviews conducted by the Information Commissioner or the Administrative Decisions Tribunal
  • Facilitating compliance with the GIPA Act reporting requirements

If you have a question in relation to accessing SCU information, please contact one of the University's RIOs:

t: +61 2 6620 3465
f: +61 2 6626 9125
e: legal@scu.edu.au

Right to Information Officer
SCU Legal Office
Southern Cross University
PO Box 157
LISMORE NSW 2480

Updated: 26 March 2012