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    How to gain access to information

    To gain access to documents, requests must:

    • be in writing to the agency holding the information (this can be done using the SA Government online application form, on the particular agency's own application form, or by letter. It is a good idea to keep a copy for personal records)
    • specify that the request is made under the Freedom of Information Act 1991 (SA)
    • be accompanied by the relevant application fee (which may be waived or reduced in cases of hardship or where the applicant is a concession card holder) (see the SA Government's Freedom of Information webpage for the current application fee)
      • a person who is required to pay the fee may ask an agency to review the fee [s 53(3)], and if the person is dissatisfied with the decision they may then apply to the Ombudsman for a further review of the fee [s 53(4)]
    • contain enough information to reasonably identify the document(s)
    • give an address in Australia to which notices can be sent
    • be lodged at an office of the agency.

    See Freedom of Information Act 1991 (SA) s 13.

    Agencies cannot refuse an application merely because it does not sufficiently identify a document. The agencies must reasonably assist applicants to provide any necessary information [Freedom of Information Act 1991 (SA) s 15].

    Agencies must respond within 30 days of receiving the request [s 14]. An extension may be granted if there is a large number of documents or consultation on the release of those documents is required. If an extension is granted then the applicant must be given written notice of this [see s 14A]. If the agency has not determined an application after this time, the agency is deemed to have refused the request [s 19(2)].

    How to gain access to information  :  Last Revised: Fri Sep 11th 2026
    The content of the Law Handbook is made available as a public service for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. See Disclaimer for details. For free and confidential legal advice in South Australia call 1300 366 424.

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