In September 1992 Premier Fahey codified the provisions to apply to the provision of information to Members of Parliament by public servants. Premier's Memorandum 92-32 was the instrument used to convey the guidelines to the public sector.

These arrangements were confirmed in February 1996. Circular 96-4 was issued to endorse the established practice. In 2002 the principles behind these circulars were reinforced with the issue of Circular 2002-20.

With the election of a new Parliament, many Members of both Houses will not have an appreciation of these principles. Accordingly, I am re-issuing this circular.

It is accepted custom and practice in New South Wales that Members of Parliament and/or their staff contact the appropriate Minister or Minister's staff when seeking information on particular issues. Alternatively, a written request is made to the Head of the agency concerned.

Similarly requests by Members of Parliament to undertake inspections of Government organisations or facilities such as gaols, schools, etc should be the subject of an official approach to the Minister or the Minister's staff.

In any case where a Member of Parliament, irrespective of political affiliation, makes an oral enquiry direct to an agency, the Member should be informed that the substance of the enquiry will be relayed to the Minister's office which will make contact with the Member. Responses to oral or written requests for information should be channelled through the Minister's office.

These requirements do not apply to a Member of Parliament in respect to his/her Electorate. Members may communicate direct with branches of agencies located within their electorate and arrange inspections of a facility by direct contact with the local officer in charge.

Your assistance in ensuring that officers within your agency are aware of these protocols would be appreciated.

Col Gellatly
Director General

30 April 2003

_____________________________________________________________

Read in conjunction with M92-32 and C96-04 and C2002-20

Superseded by C2006-46