20 June 2005
The legal regimes that govern access to, and the amendment of, government information have been analysed in a new book by Monash University Law School researcher Ms Moira Paterson.
Ms Paterson said the book, Freedom of Information and Privacy in Australia: Government and Information Access in the Modern State, would play a significant role in defining the relationship between Australians and their governments.
Freedom of Information (FOI) and information privacy laws had an important role to play in protecting against abuses of power, she said.
"The roles of FOI and information privacy laws have become especially important in an era characterised by blurring of the public/private distinction, technological changes that impact on both the recording of information and privacy, and a continuing preoccupation with terrorism at the expense of important civil liberties.
"Sadly, FOI has in many ways failed to live up to the expectations of its architects and continues to suffer as it becomes less attractive to political parties once ensconced in government.
"I have tried to identify the interrelationship between FOI, privacy and public records laws and at the same time I have provided a critique of their operation and suggestions concerning possible reforms," Ms Paterson said.
Her book discusses the laws relating to freedom of information (FOI), information privacy and health and public records.
She said it was a timely analysis given the extent of privatisation, deregulation and contracting-out and - in the age of information technology and the post-September 11 terror attack -- a preoccupation with national security.
Ms Paterson said the book would be a valuable reference for public sector decision-makers, lawyers, accountants and other professionals. It would also be a valuable resource for students, journalists and other public interest group.
The book was launched last week by Privacy Commissioner of Victoria Mr Paul Chadwick.
For more information contact Ms Natasha Whalley in Media Communications on +61 3 9905 9201 or 0437 458 457 or Ms Jodi Rockman, Faculty of Law on +61 3 9905 2630 or 0403 244 268.
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