Freedom of Information

Rights to Access Documents

The Freedom of Information Act 1992 (WA) (FOI Act) gives members of the public the right to apply for access to documents held by the Shire of Narrogin. An applicant’s right of access is not affected by their reasons for seeking the documents, and there is no requirement to provide a reason.

Under the FOI Act, the Shire is required to:

  • assist applicants to make a valid FOI application;
  • assist applicants to obtain access to documents at a reasonable cost; and
  • allow individuals to apply for amendment of personal information that is inaccurate, incomplete, out of date or misleading.

While the FOI Act provides a general right of access to documents, it also recognises that some documents require protection. Access may be refused, or limited, where documents meet the exemption criteria set out in Schedule 1 of the FOI Act, including (but not limited to):

  • personal information that identifies a third party;
  • information concerning trade secrets; and
  • information of commercial value.

    Making an Application

    Applications must be made in writing and addressed to the Freedom of Information (FOI) Coordinator.

    Your application should:

    • clearly identify or describe the documents requested; or
    • if applying for amendment of your personal information, explain how or why the information is inaccurate, incomplete, out of date or misleading.

    If an application is very broad (for example, requesting “everything” on a particular subject), the FOI Coordinator will assist the applicant to narrow the scope so that the application can be processed efficiently. An application may only be refused in limited circumstances provided for under the FOI Act.

    Applications must also:

    • include an address in Australia to which notices can be sent; and
    • include a contact telephone number and/or email address where possible, to assist in processing the application.

    Written applications must be lodged with the Shire together with any applicable application fee.

    Applicants may download a copy of the Shire of Narrogin’s Freedom of Information Statement and Application Form from the website.

    Lodgement of FOI Applications

    FOI applications may be lodged by mail or email to:

    Freedom of Information Co-Ordinator
    Shire of Narrogin
    PO Box 1145
    NARROGIN WA 6312

    Email: enquiries@narrogin.wa.gov.au

    Time Limits & Charges

    Please go to the website for these details.