Freedom of Information (FOI) legislation has become part of the political fabric in Australia since its introduction in the early 1980s. The Commonwealth and all states have their own FOI Acts. Local councils in Victoria have only been subject to FOI legislation since 1 January 1994.

FOI is associated with open government and the democratic process. It is seen as a crucial part of the ability of citizens to participate in how they are governed that they have access to government information. The FOI Act has four main functions:

1. To provide a general right of access to documents
2. To enable individuals to amend incorrect information about them held by government
3. To provide rights of appeal in relation to the previous two functions
4. To require agencies to publish certain details about themselves and their functions

A valid request for access to council documents under the FOI Act must observe all the following criteria:

• Be in writing
• Be accompanied by a $22.70 application fee
• Provide such information as is reasonably necessary to enable the documents to be identified

Freedom of Information - Access Request form
FOI Request for Information form

In accordance with legislation, the City of Port Phillip has 45 days to respond to requests.

Search and access charges, allowable under the Act, are also applicable to each application.

For more information about FOI, see the State Government Freedom Of Information website, use eServices or telephone the FOI officer via ASSIST on (03) 9209 6777 or TTy (03) 9209 6713.