the solution

Other Information

Online training

All training sessions will be by video conference until further notice due to health precautions.  The video conference will be conducted using WebEx (end to end encryption). 

 

Join us for a range of 1 hour sessions available over June and July.  The range of training sessions we provide include:

  • Simplifying the FOI impacts of the new Local Government Act;
  • Basic FOI Training;
  • Intermediate FOI Training;
  • How to treat agency staff personal affairs information under FOI; and
  • Legal privilege: how to apply the s 32 exemption.

Visit our website for more information on the sessions that we offer and links to register.

 

One on one legal consultations now available

Due to the current isolation measures, FOI Solutions has introduced 30 minute one-on-one “clinics” via videoconferencing.  During a clinic, you can “consult” one of our expert lawyers at a fixed fee in relation to public interest disclosures, privacy and freedom of information.

 

For more information or to book one of our clinics, please contact us at info@foisolutions.com.au 

Question time

Q: Is there a process to follow when dealing with general complaints? 

 

A: It is easy to get used to the processes established by particular complaint regimes so that we aren’t sure how to handle something that doesn’t fit under those perimeters.  When dealing with general complaints, it is important to keep in mind that they could still be escalated to a complaint handling authority, such as the Ombudsman, or even in some circumstances, the IBAC.  As a result, make sure your agency has good complaint handling procedures in place and a public policy outlining what members of the public can expect when they raise a complaint about your organisation.  If you think your organisation would benefit from a review of its general complaint handling processes, or a top up complaint handling training session, please let us know.

 

Q: If one of my decisions goes to VCAT on review, does the VCAT have to make a fresh decision or can it send it back to me?

 

A:  Since 2014, the VCAT has been able to invite an original decision-maker (including a government agency) to reconsider its decision at any time during a proceeding.  A decision that is affirmed, varied or substituted by the decision-maker will then be reviewed by the VCAT in accordance with the Tribunal’s usual processes.   This helps narrow the issues in dispute at the early stages of a proceeding and reduce the need for ongoing and unnecessary litigation.