Information statement and Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act 1992 gives every person the right to seek access to documents held by government agencies.

Documents may comprise written material, plans and drawings, photographs, tape recordings, films, videotapes or information stored in a computerised form. Since its creation, the DWER handles all FOI inquiries and applications relating to matters pertaining to the EPA's administration of the Environmental Protection Act 1986, even if those matters were previously dealt with by the former Department of Environment and Conservation or Office of the Environmental Protection Authority.

It is the aim of DWER to make information available as soon as possible and at the least possible cost. Whenever possible, documents will be made available to the public outside the FOI process (that is, on the EPA's website or at our offices - 8 Davidson Terrace, Joondalup WA).

Applications for information made under the FOI process must:

• be in writing;
• give enough detail to identify the requested documents or - if the application is for amendment of personal information - details must be provided to show how or why the agency's records are inaccurate, incomplete, out of date or misleading;
• give an Australian address, and where possible, a contact telephone number; and
• be lodged at the office of the agency that would be expected to hold the documents, together with any application fee payable.

Applications and enquiries should be addressed to:

The FOI Administrator
Department of Water and Environmental Regulation
Locked Bag 10 Joondalup DC JOONDALUP WA 6919

Applications will be acknowledged in writing and the applicant will be notified of the decision within 45 days.