Public Access to the Department

Community awareness of the agency and its services

The Communication Services Unit is responsible for providing support to all areas of the department on public communication and marketing issues, including publications, websites and the coordination of major public information campaigns.

Opportunities for favourable media coverage were routinely identified and developed by the Communication Services 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 back of this report.

Contact officers for activities of the department are displayed on its website and are published in the back of this report.

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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.

From 1 July 2006 through to 30 June 2007, 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 about public access to the department should be directed to:

Manager, Conduct and Investigations
Department of Education
GPO Box 169, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001
Ph (03) 6233 7538

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Freedom of information requests

During the 2006-07 year, the department received 44 requests under the Freedom of Information Act 1991.

Thirty-two of the requests received related to requests for personal information. There were no requests to amend personal information.

Of the 44 requests received by 30 June 2007, 15 were decided within the time limit of 30 days. There were 5 requests for internal or external review from those 44 requests.

Enquiries or requests under the Act should be directed to:

Freedom of Information Officer
Department of Education
GPO Box 169, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001

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