The NSW Government is committed to meeting the community's need for ready access to Government information. Copies of all government publications, in every format, are required to be deposited with designated institutions.

The attached booklet, Access to Published Information – Laws, Policy and Guidelines, sets out the Government's policy for public access to this information, and advises on compliance with relevant State and Commonwealth laws. The Government's policy binds all departments and authorities and it is commended for adoption by State-owned Corporations.

This Memorandum, together with the booklet, revokes and replaces Memorandum No. 1991-27, Requirements for all NSW Government Publications. It has been updated in response to technological developments, financial constraints and growing public interest in the business of government. The definitions of 'publish' and 'publication' have been broadened and clarified, bringing NSW again into the lead in providing information to the community and preserving historical resources for researchers.

Access to Published Information – Laws, Policy and Guidelines was prepared after a wide-ranging review and consultation with central and functional agencies, the State and National Libraries, university libraries and information professionals.

I ask Ministers to bring this access policy to the attention of agencies within their administration, and to note legislative provisions that apply to State-owned Corporations. Chief Executives should ensure that the document reaches officers involved in producing publications, including authors, publishers, printers, librarians, information officers, records managers and corporate communication staff.

Additional copies of Access to Published Information are available from the Premier's Department or from the Premier's Department web site (under Publications, then under Publishing Information)

For further information, please contact the Public Sector Management Office on telephone 9228 5512, facsimile 9228 3102 or email to: [email protected]

Bob Carr
Premier