The responsibilities of agencies for the management of Freedom of Information legislation were outlined in Circular No. 1993-02 of 2nd February, 1993.

It is important that Chief Executives continue to focus on the administrative implications of this legislation by ensuring that staff within their respective organisations are adequately briefed and trained in relation to the responsibilities of agencies under the FOI Act.

The Royal Institute of Public Administration Australia (RIPAA) has established a FOI Network which meets regularly to provide an opportunity for those involved in FOI administration to exchange views and update their knowledge and skills. Enquiries about these activities can be addressed to Mr Phillip Youngman (Telephone 218-6632).

The Network's meetings for the remainder of 1994 will be 18 May, 17 August and 16 November. The meetings will commence at 9.30 am for networking and 10.00 am - 12.30 pm for discussions. The venue is the Theatrette, Ground Floor, State Office Block, (Phillip Street entrance). Those responsible for FOI management are encouraged to attend.

Mr Peter Timmins of Timmins Consulting Pty Ltd, conducts regular training courses on Freedom of Information and he has advised the following details in respect of courses available for the rest of the year.

FOI Management and Application - 7-8 March, 9-10 May, 11-12 July, 14-15 September

Two Day program primarily for those responsible for management of FOI function in departments, agencies, local government or other organisations covered by the Act.

Fee: $650 covers attendance, notes, lunch and morning and af ternoon tea.

FOI Decision Making and Interpretation - 21 March, 24 May, 27 September

One Day program primarily for senior officers and elected officials particularly those responsible for making decisions on applications under the FOI Act.

Fee: $350 covers attendance, notes, lunch and morning and afternoon tea.

Advanced Program - 22 March, 28 September

Half Day program for those with a good knowledge of Freedom of Information issues who wish to examine more detailed issues of interpretation and decision making with particular attention to drafting notices of determination.

Course times: 8.30 - 12.30 pm or 1.30 - 5.30 pm

Fees: $250 covers attendance and notes

You might care to take advantage of the Timmins' Courses or any others which may be available in the market place at any given time.

Director-General.

Issues: Projects & Management Services Division
Contact: Claude Janes
Telephone: 2284441
Date: 1st March, 1994

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superseded by M2007-11