The Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 1982 gives the community a legal right to access certain documents containing personal information, including:
- health records
- maternal and child health records
- parking fine information
- permit and planning submissions.
Documents, both digital or hardcopy, can include files, maps, film, microfiche, photographs, and audio and video recordings.
Some documents may be exempt from access, as stipulated in the Act.
There is a fee to submit a Freedom of Information request, and some documents may require additional charges. For more information, see our Part II Statement attached at the bottom of this page.
How to make a request
Step 1: Complete the application form
To request access to documents under the Freedom of Information Act, complete the Application to access documents form (PDF 209KB).
For health information, complete the Application to access health information form (PDF 115KB).
For immunisation information, see the Request an immunisation history statement information on our Immunisation history statements page.
Make sure you provide all relevant information about the documents you want to access. Where possible, also include the type and approximate date range of the documents.
Step 2: Pay the application fee
The fee for accessing documents under the Freedom of Information Act is $31.80. There is no application fee for accessing personal health or immunisation information.
You can pay by credit card.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, contact us and we may be able to reduce or waive the fee.
Step 3: Submit your application
Submit your application and payment details:
- by email to [email protected], or
- by post to Freedom of Information Officer, Private Bag 1, Camberwell VIC 3124.
Step 4: Application response
Council is required to make a decision within 30 days of receiving a valid request.
If your application is approved, we'll also let you know if you need to pay additional fees, such as:
- search fees
- supervision charges
- photocopying charges
- access in a form other than a photocopy.
If your application is denied, we'll let you know why and explain your rights of review.
You can email [email protected] or call (03) 9278 4022 with any enquiries.