Make a Complaint to the FOI Commissioner

You can complain about how the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) or a State or Territory Education and Care Regulatory Authority are exercising their responsibilities under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (the FOI Act). This is a separate process from asking for a Freedom of Information Commissioner Review of a decision that has been made under the FOI Act by one of these agencies. Complaints usually focus on how an agency has handled your Freedom of Information request or complied with other obligations under the FOI Act.

Any person can complain about an agency’s actions in relation to an FOI activity. You do not need to have requested access to documents. Before making a complaint, you should raise your concerns directly with the agency if possible.

Complaints to the Commissioner must be made in writing. Your complaint should include:

  • the name of the agency you are complaining about – ie ACECQA or a State or Territory Regulatory Authority
  • a brief description of your concern
  • any action the agency has taken to address your concern
  • copies of any relevant documents, including copies of your complaint to the agency, if any, and its response.

What happens to your complaint?

The FOI Commissioner will assess the information you have provided and decide the appropriate next steps. We will then contact you.

Your personal information

If you have any questions about the personal information we collect and how we will handle your information, please contact our office or refer to our Privacy Policy.

Lodgement

Lodge your Freedom of Information Complaint in one of the following ways:

Completed downloaded forms can be emailed, mailed or delivered in person.

For initial discussion or for assistance you can contact the Office on 1300 081 533.