Tasmanian RTI Reforms Proposed
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff has proposed significant reforms to the state's Right to Information (RTI) laws, including the proactive release of cabinet documents after 20 years. These changes are a direct response to a review of the state's RTI system, conducted by Rick Snell and Tim McCormack, which concluded in September last year. The review found a pervasive "culture of non-disclosure and obfuscation" within the system.
Tasmania's RTI system was found to have a "culture of non-disclosure and obfuscation," prompting the proposed reforms.
Review Highlights "Culture of Non-Disclosure"
The Snell and McCormack review issued 43 recommendations, aiming to introduce a "culture of openness" within the government. Key suggestions from the review included making cabinet information available after 10 years, providing more detailed explanations for information redactions, and improving routine disclosure logs across government departments.
The independent review advocated for a "culture of openness," recommending cabinet information be accessible after 10 years.
Government Accepts Many Recommendations, Focuses on Operations
Mr. Rockliff has presented the government's response to the state parliament. The government has confirmed its support for 32 of the review's recommendations, either in full or in principle. The primary focus of the government's response is on operational improvements, cultural change, strengthening the capabilities and training of RTI officers, and enhancing consistency and responsiveness among agencies.
To oversee these changes, a new cross-agency governance framework will be established, alongside a dedicated steering committee to manage implementation.
Key Policy Shifts and Unaccepted Recommendations
The commitment to proactively release cabinet documents after 20 years aligns with the federal government's policy. This marks a significant change, as currently, Tasmanian cabinet documents from the past 25 years can only be accessed with the approval of the premier at the time of their creation.
Other supported recommendations include expanding the types of information routinely disclosed and requiring departments to disclose searches for information to applicants. However, the government did not accept the recommendation to proactively release cabinet submissions, agendas, and decision papers 30 days after a final cabinet decision.
While supporting the release of cabinet documents after 20 years, the government declined the recommendation to proactively release cabinet submissions and agendas within 30 days of a final decision.
Mixed Reactions from Stakeholders
Adjunct Associate Professor Snell expressed satisfaction that some recommendations were accepted. However, he noted that approximately half of the supported recommendations were "in principle" and subject to qualifications, raising concerns about their full delivery and potential limitations.
Independent Member for Nelson, Meg Webb MLC, criticized the government's response as "disappointing" and overdue, highlighting that only 40 percent of the recommendations were clearly accepted. Ms. Webb suggested that independent MPs had pressured the government into implementing these reforms.
Tasmanian Treasurer Eric Abetz defended the 20-year timeframe for cabinet document release, stating it aligns with federal policy and ensures a balance between transparency and allowing the government to conduct its business without stifling internal discussions.