Freedom of information

The Freedom of Information Act includes a list of exemptions that must be considered when evaluating requests.

There are 23 exemptions to the FOI Act, some of which are absolute and some qualified.

If an absolute exemption applies, the information is not permitted for disclosure.

For example any information considered personal data or information that relates to commercial activities, national security, defence may result in a breach of confidence.

If a qualified exemption applies then the information is subject to the public interest test.