What is Freedom of Information?
Freedom of Information (FOI) gives individuals the right to request access to documents and records held by Adelaide University under the Freedom of Information Act 1991 (SA). This includes electronic records, paper files, audio, and visual material related to the University’s function and operations.
What kind of information can I request?
You may request access to records that the University holds, including administrative records, policy documents, and personal information about you. Before lodging a request, we encourage that you check what is already publicly available on our website.
How do I make an FOI request?
Requests to the University’s Freedom of Information Officer must be in writing and clearly define the documents and records that you seek. We recommend using the Freedom of Information application form.
Who can lodge an FOI request?
Anyone can make a request under the FOI Act. You can also authorise someone (such as a lawyer or representative) to make.
What should I include in an FOI Request?
To help us process your request quickly and avoid additional costs, you should include as much detail as possible about what it is you are looking for. This can include:
- The subject of the records and context (including any document numbers you may know)
- The date or date range of records that you are seeking
- Names of University Colleges or Portfolios that are involved
- Names and/or job titles of individuals you believe are involved
- The format of the record you have in mind (e.g. Email, report, etc.)
How do I request correction of personal information the University holds about me?
If you believe information in Adelaide University records about you is incomplete, incorrect, out of date, or misleading, you can submit an application for it to be amended.
Request to amend a document containing personal affairs information form.
How long will my request take?
Once you lodge a request, the University will assess it, locate relevant documents, and determine what can be released under the FOI act.
In most cases a decision will be made within 30 calendar days of receiving your request. In the case of complex requests, this may take longer. In certain circumstances, the University may formally extend the timeframe required to process your application. In this situation you will be advised within 20 calendar days that an extension is required, and the reasons why.
If, at the end of 30 days, you have not received a determination or advice that we require additional time to process your application, you may assume that the University has refused your application. In this case you are entitled to lodge an application for review, however we do recommend you first contact the FOI Officer as to the status of your request.
What if I disagree with your decision?
If you disagree with the decision made by the University about your FOI application, you have the option to lodge an internal or external review.