Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Freedom of Information Amendment Bill 2025; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Wednesday 3 September 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The Attorney-General introduced the bill to modernise the Freedom of Information Act 1982, arguing that the current framework is inefficient and vulnerable to abuse by vexatious and anonymous applicants. The legislation aims to reduce administrative burdens on agencies, which spent $86.2 million and over one million hours processing requests in 2023-24, by introducing application fees for non-personal requests and a 40-hour processing cap. The bill also clarifies exemptions, addresses concerns raised by the 2013 Hawke review and the 2023 Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme, and establishes processes for handling requests involving former ministers. The debate was adjourned after the Attorney-General's speech, with no other members speaking.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Michelle Rowland (Greenway) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Rowland argued that the existing freedom of information system was outdated and inefficient, citing a 23 per cent increase in processing costs to $86.2 million in 2023-24. Rowland stated that vexatious and anonymous requests, facilitated by new technologies, diverted resources from genuine applicants and essential government services. The member contended that the bill would restore balance by introducing application fees for non-personal requests, while exempting the 72 per cent of requests for personal information. Rowland emphasised that the amendments would clarify procedural rules, implement a 40-hour processing cap, and address specific concerns regarding cabinet documents and ministerial transitions.