Freedom of Information Amendment Bill 2025

Send this to your representative if you oppose this bill: Subject: Please Oppose the Freedom of Information Amendment Bill 2025 Dear [Representative’s Name], I am asking you to oppose the Freedom of Information Amendment Bill 2025. Despite being presented as a reform to “strengthen” FOI, the Bill will make it harder for Australians to access government information. My key concerns are: Banning anonymous requests silences whistleblowers, journalists, and advocates who rely on anonymity to avoid retaliation. Introducing application fees creates a “transparency tax,” deterring citizens and community groups from seeking or appealing access. Expanding Cabinet and deliberative exemptions risks more secrecy, not less, at a time when transparency is critical. New refusal powers give agencies more ways to block legitimate inquiries, on top of the tools they already have. The facts show the problem is not frivolous requests, but declining transparency: only 21% of FOI requests were granted in full last year, while the cost per decision has quadrupled since 2006. Some technical fixes in the Bill are welcome, but the core measures undermine accountability. True reform would properly resource FOI and promote a culture of openness. Please reject this Bill and stand up for Australians’ right to know. Yours sincerely, [Your Name]