Public access to the departmentCommunity awareness of the agency and its servicesA positive image of the department was promoted to the Tasmanian community through various media organisations. Opportunities for favourable media coverage were routinely identified and developed by the Public Communications Unit. These included launches and events, feature stories and interviews showcasing departmental programs. The department participated in the whole-of-government exhibition at Tasmania’s regional agricultural shows. The department’s publications during the reporting year are listed in the chapters for each major service delivery area. Contact officers for activities of the department are displayed on its website and are published in the service delivery chapters in this report. The Public Communications Unit is responsible for providing support to all areas of the department on public communication and marketing issues, including advice on publications and the coordination of major public information campaigns. Public interest disclosuresThe Public Interest Disclosures Act 2002 came into operation on 1 January 2004. The main objective of the Act is to encourage and facilitate disclosures about improper conduct or detrimental action by public officers and public bodies. The department developed and implemented a Public Interest Disclosures Policy and Model Procedures, which are available on the department’s website. A printed copy can be viewed at 116 Bathurst Street, Hobart during office hours. Enquiries should be directed to the Manager, Investigations Unit, on (03) 6233 7538. From 1 July 2004 through to 30 June 2005 the department received four disclosures, of which none were accepted as Public Interest Disclosures. Appeals against decisions of the agencyThe department’s School Community Grievances Policy describes procedures for effective and early resolution of disputes, recognising that the resolution of conflict between schools and their community members is vital to the wellbeing and success of students. The policy is published on the department’s website. Legislation administered by the department contains provisions for appealing against departmental decisions. The Grievances and Investigations Unit is available to assist employees and members of the public with grievance and appeal matters. Enquiries should be directed to: Manager, Investigations Unit, Department of Education Freedom of information requestsDuring the 2004-05 year, the department received 35 requests under the Freedom of Information Act 1991 (FOI Act). Four of the requests received related to requests for personal information. There were no requests to amend personal information. Of the 35 requests received by 30 June 2005, 23 were decided within the time limit of 30 days. There were no requests for internal or external review from those 35 requests. Additionally, one employee made approximately 70 new applications involving requests for personal information, most of which were to amend personal information, and approximately 13 new requests concerning pre-existing applications. The employee has previously lodged in excess of 200 applications. These applications are not included in the figures for the year and have been resolved with the assistance of Crown Law and the Office of the Ombudsman.
Enquiries or requests under the Act should be made to: Freedom of Information Officer, Department of Education |