Request access to information

An informal access request is a way to seek access to the City’s records informally in accordance with section 8 of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (the GIPA Act).

This permits the City the option to give you access to information without requiring you to make a Formal GIPA Application under Part 4 of the GIPA Act. 

Applying for access to information informally means that:

• release of information to you subject to any conditions that we see fit to imposed
• the City is permitted to decide by what means information is released and may delete any matter from a copy of the record to enable it to be released
• there is no statutory timeframe imposed on the City to make a decision, however we aim to respond within 20 working days, and
• you do not have the right to have the City’s decision reviewed

There is no application fee for access to information sought informally. However, a processing charge of $30 per hour and / or copying charges may apply where access to information:

• involves an extensive use of the City's resources to deal with, or
• relates to development applications received and /or decisions made before 1 July 2010

You would be advised if charges apply to your informal access request. These charges are included in City's fees and charges.

You can make informal access requests to us by submitting one of the online forms below.  You can also make an informal request in person, over the phone or via email using the contact details on this page.

** If you are seeking Development Applications, Building Applications, Building Plans, Construction Certificates or Occupation Certificates you cannot apply via the Informal Access Request Form**

Apply for these certificates here: Request for Building Plans, Approvals & Consents

Apply for other records here: Informal Access Request form

If you haven’t been able to get information through an Informal Access Request, you can pursue the matter by lodging a Formal Access Application.

Processing charges may also apply, refer to the Guideline on Fees and Charges for Formal Access Applications(PDF, 154KB) for more information.

You can submit your request using the online form below.

Formal Access Application form

You can also make your request in writing, stating that it is a Formal Access Application under the GIPA Act, specifying the information you seek so that we can identify it, and including a $30 application fee.

Internal Review Application (Formal Access Applications only)

 If you are dissatisfied with our decision, a right of review and appeal is available.

A fee of $40.00 is payable upon lodgement of your application.

Your application must be lodged within 20 working days after the notice of decision is given, or where we did not decide your application, within the statutory time frame.

Internal Review Application form