How can I access information held by Forestry Corporation NSW?
Step 1: Look for the information on the website
FCNSW publishes a large volume of material on its websites. We try to release as much government information as possible, either through our websites or in another appropriate way, and free of charge or at the lowest reasonable cost. Under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, certain information is required by law to be available on our website, free of charge. This is called 'open access information'.
In addition to the open access information which FCNSW is required by law to make available, FCNSW also proactively releases a large volume of other information. If you cannot find the information you are looking for on our websites, you can ask us whether the information has already been released by FCNSW proactively in some other form, such as in print.
Step 2: Make an informal request
If the information you are after has not already been published but raises no particular concerns (in terms of possible public interest reasons why it should be kept confidential), then Forestry Corporation may be able to release it to you on request without the requirement of having to make a formal application.
If you think this applies to the information you are after you can contact us to make an informal request.
Generally, we try to release information we hold without the need for you to make a formal access application, unless there are good reasons to require one.
Under the Government Information (Public Access) Act however, government agencies are not required to release information without an access application. Forestry Corporation reserves the right to require you to lodge an access application, particularly if there may be significant public interest considerations that need to be taken into account in deciding whether the information can be released, if third party consultation is required, if you request a large volume of information, or if it would otherwise take a significant amount of time to consider your request.
Step 3: Make a formal access application
If the information you are seeking is not available on our websites and is not otherwise routinely provided on request, then you have a right to formally apply for access to specific information.
You can make a formal application by downloading, completing and posting the information access form and sending it to us. You may submit your form electronically to gipa@fcnsw.com.au or in hard copy at the address below:
The Right to Information Officer
Forestry Corporation of NSW
PO Box 100
BEECROFT NSW 2119
The Act says that we are only able to accept access applications that:
- Are in writing and sent to us using one of the options detailed above
- Clearly state you are requesting information under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW)
- Enclose the $30 application fee (see below for payment options)
- Include a postal address in Australia as the address for correspondence
- Include as much specific information as necessary to enable us to identify the information you are asking for.
We will write to acknowledge receipt of a valid access application within five working days, and will deal with your application within 20 working days (subject to any extension allowed for under the Act). If any extension of time is required to deal with your application, we will let you know in writing.
Application fee
The application fee for making an access application is $30. This may be paid using one of the following options:
Credit card
Call 02 9872 0111 to arrange payment over the phone using a credit card.
Electronic funds transfer
Account Name: Forestry Corporation of NSW
Bank: Australian and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
Currency: AUD
Branch: 242 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW 2000
BSB: 012-693
Account Number : 405373
Reference: Your name as used on your application
When you submit your application, please note the date and reference of your funds transfer.
Deposit at your local bank
Account Name: Forestry Corporation of NSW
Bank: ANZ
BSB: 012 100
Account Number: 838327197
When you submit your application, please note the date of your deposit.
Other options
If you wish to send a cheque or money order, it should be made payable to Forestry Corporation of NSW.
Processing charges
Processing charges can also be imposed at the rate of $30 per hour. In some circumstances an advance deposit can be required. We will let you know in writing if that applies to your application.
Certain discounts may apply, including on financial hardship and public interest grounds – for more details see the Information Commissioner Fact Sheets.
Access application form
Although there is no legal requirement for you to use any particular form to make an access application (beyond satisfying the five requirements set out above), Forestry Corporation has provided a form that you may wish to use for convenience.
- Internal Review Application Form [193.8 KB PDF]
- Access Application Form [213.0 KB PDF]