Public access to the department

Community awareness of the agency and its services

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 disclosures

The 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’s Public Interest Disclosures Policy and Model Procedures 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, Conduct and Investigations Unit, on (03) 6233 7538.

From 1 July 2005 through to 30 June 2006 the department did not receive any public interest disclosures.

Appeals against decisions of the agency

The 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.

Legislation administered by the department contains provisions for appealing against departmental decisions. The Conduct and Investigations Unit is available to assist employees and members of the public with grievance and appeal matters.

Enquiries should be directed to:
Manager, Conduct and Investigations Unit
Department of Education, GPO Box 169, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001
Ph (03) 6233 7538.

Freedom of information requests

During the 2005-06 year, the department received 38 requests under the Freedom of Information Act 1991.

Four of the requests received related to requests for personal information. There were no requests to amend personal information.

Of the 38 requests received by 30 June 2006, 13 were decided within the time limit of 30 days. There were four requests for internal or external review from those 38 requests.

Enquiries or requests under the Act should be directed to:
Freedom of Information Officer
Department of Education
GPO Box 169, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001