COURSE NAME

OVERVIEW

DURATION

FOI Coordinator

 Workshop

Target audience:

This introductory course is specifically designed for employees dealing with FOI applications.

To introduce participants to the objects and the principles of the FOI Act and the major features of the legislation.  Coverage includes: introduction to the FOI Act; the role of decision-makers; FOI applications; exemptions; consultation with third parties; charges; notices of decision and review; amendment of records; publication of information; statistics and reporting.

Outcome

Participants will be able to explain the intent of the FOI Act, apply the principles, and assist applicants gain access to documents, where appropriate.

9am-4pm

(lunch provided)

Decision-Makers

 Forum

Target audience:

FOI Coordinators and decision-makers.

This forum covers the processes of decision making; consultation; the options available to agencies when large applications are received; assisting the applicant redefine the scope of the application; procedures and processes required to be followed before refusing to deal with an application; refusing to deal with; exemptions; material facts; public interest and the notice of decision requirements.

Outcome

Participants will gain an understanding of section 20 of the FOI Act, and the process to follow firstly by assisting the applicant reduce the scope of the request and, where the applicant is not willing to cooperate, to make the appropriate decision in accordance requirements of the FOI Act.

½ day

FOI Briefing

(Agencies)

Target audience:

Agency Executive; managers; or any staff in agency to raise awareness in general.

Briefings can be tailored to meet an agency’s specific needs.

E.g.

·                    A basic overview of the FOI Act and the process relevant to the organisations functions.

·                    The application of particular exemptions and the requirements of each.

·                    Understanding the public interest test.

·                    The preparation of a notice of decision that complies with section 30 of the FOI Act.

·                     

Outcome

Participants will gain an understanding and clarification of any particular aspect of concern raised prior to or during the briefing.

Varies - dependent on content of briefing.

FOI Briefing

Target audience:

Community groups; public etc.

Briefing on FOI process.

Outcome

Participants will become aware of their rights and how to use FOI when applying for access to documents from Western Australian government agencies.

1 hour