THE HON MARK DREYFUS QC MP
SHADOW ATTORNEY-GENERAL
SHADOW MINISTER FOR THE ARTS
MEMBER FOR ISAACS
MEDIA RELEASE
BRANDIS ABOLISHES AUSTRALIAN INFORMATION COMMISSIONER
The Abbott Government has ripped over $10 million in funding out of privacy and freedom of information services, and abolished the Office of the Information Commissioner.
The Abbott Government has ripped over $10 million in funding out of privacy and freedom of information services, and abolished the Office of the Information Commissioner.
Since the election this Government has gone to great lengths to conceal their actions: from declining to release incoming government briefs under the Freedom of Information Act, to refusing to release simple information on the basis it would be too much work for ministerial offices.
The cuts also abolish the positions of Australian Information Commissioner, held by Professor John McMillan AO, and Freedom of Information Commissioner, held by Dr James Popple.
The jobs of the more than 80 staff at the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner are in danger.
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner provides public access to Commonwealth Government information, protects the privacy of personal information and manages the public's right of access to documents under the Freedom of Information Act.
Senator Brandis and this Government are clearly uncomfortable with the level of scrutiny that comes with office.
This cut has come with no consultation and will makes a minor saving at the cost of Australians access to information about their Government.
Rather than step up and govern in the interests of all Australians, Senator Brandis is running scared from scrutiny of his Government.
WEDNESDAY, 14 MAY 2014
