The South Australian Freedom of Information Act is an Act that provides the public with a legally enforceable right to access documents and records held by South Australian Government agencies, subject to certain restrictions and exemptions. It also provides for the correction of references to someone’s personal affairs in documents and reports in appropriate cases.

Section 29 and Section 38 of the FOI Act 1991 cover Internal reviews

You must lodge your application for a review within 30 days after the day on which notice was given of the determination.

If the Minister or the State Courts Administrator made the determination, as opposed to a delegate of those officers, then you cannot apply for an internal review, but you may proceed to an external review.

Please use the attached Application for Internal Review of Determination form.

If, after an internal review, you are still dissatisfied with this agency’s determination, you can request an investigation by the Ombudsman within 30 days after notice of the decision is given. (refer Section 39, FOI Act 1991 (SA))

To apply for a review by the Ombudsman, please direct your enquiries to the Office of the Ombudsman. Investigations by the Ombudsman are free.

If you are dissatisfied with a determination of this agency –

  • after an internal review; or
  • after a review by the Ombudsman

you may appeal against the determination to the District Court. (refer Section 40 and Section 41 FOI Act 1991 (SA))

An appeal to the District Court must be commenced –

  • within 30 days after notice of the determination or decision to which proceedings relate

The procedure for lodging applications in the District Court is outlined in the District Court Rules.

For further information, contact the FOI Oficer: p: +61 8 8226 1288 f: +61 8 8226 0137 foi@courts.sa.gov.au Postal Address: Freedom of Information Officer Courts Administration Authority GPO Box 1068 Adelaide, South Australia, 5001