The Australian community has a right of access to most records created by the Australian government under either the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (FOI) or the Archives Act 1983. This legislation allows the public to request access to records held by either agencies or the Archives.

The FOI Act applies to records created since 1 December 1977. There is also a right of access to records created before 1 December 1977 if they relate to the personal affairs of the applicant, or if they are necessary to understand records to which the applicant has already had access. Agencies are responsible for processing requests made under the FOI Act.

The Archives Act applies to records over 30 years old. The National Archives is responsible for processing applications for access made under the Act, but may contact agencies where specialist advice is required or if an agency has asked to be consulted in relation to particular subjects or types of records.

For more information on access under the FOI Act, see Fact Sheet 110 – When to use FOI, Archives and Privacy Acts



For more information on access under the Archives Act, see Fact Sheet 10 – Access to records under the Archives Act