document details - agriculture and food web viewit also provides an outline of our freedom of...

Freedom of Information Act 1992Information Statement

Updated July 2016

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Department of Agriculture and FoodInformation statement Freedom of Information

Document detailsSecurity classification: Public

Date of review: 30 July 2017

Authority: Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia

Author: Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia

Document status: Final version

Version: Version 2.0

Contact for enquiriesAll enquiries regarding this document should be directed in the first instance to:

Document and Records Management

Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia

+ 61(0)8 9368 3386

[email protected]

Important disclaimer

The Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Agriculture and Food and the State of Western Australia accept no liability whatsoever by reason of negligence or otherwise arising from the use or release of this information or any part of it.

Copyright © Western Australian Agriculture Authority, 2016

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mailto:[email protected]


IntroductionThis statement has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of section 94 of the Freedom of Information Act 1992 (FOI Act) and is intended to act as a guide to the Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia’s (DAFWA’s) structure, functions and decision-making processes.

It also provides an outline of our Freedom of Information operations and how members of the public can apply for access to the documents we hold, including procedures to apply for the amendment of personal information held by the department.

Content

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sIntroduction...............................................................................................................31. About the department..........................................................................................9

1.1 Historical background........................................................................................9

1.2 Our role............................................................................................................10

1.3 Strategic plan...................................................................................................10

1.4 Organisational Structure..................................................................................11

2. Legislation administered by the department....................................................143. Bodies related to the department......................................................................20

3.1 Agricultural Produce Commission....................................................................20

3.2 Land Conservation District Committees..........................................................21

3.3 Rural Business Development Corporation.......................................................22

3.4 Veterinary Surgeons’ Board.............................................................................23

3.5 Western Australian Meat Industry Authority....................................................24

4. Policy formulation and performance................................................................254.1 Committees involving non-government participation.......................................25

4.2 Complaints and feedback................................................................................29

5. Documents held by the department..................................................................315.1 Subjects of documents....................................................................................31

5.2 Information management.................................................................................32

6. Publicly accessible documents........................................................................336.1 Library services...............................................................................................33

6.2 Publications.....................................................................................................33

6.3 Internal manuals..............................................................................................34

6.4 Photography and images.................................................................................34

6.7 Maps and data.................................................................................................35

6.8 Employee information......................................................................................35

6.9 Fees and charges booklet...............................................................................36

7. Freedom of Information (FOI) operations........................................................377.1 How to lodge a FOI application........................................................................37

7.2 Charges for lodging a FOI application.............................................................37

7.3 Access arrangements......................................................................................38

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7.4 Notice of decision............................................................................................38

7.5 Refusal of access............................................................................................39

7.6 Applications for the amendment of personal information.................................39

7.7 Published information......................................................................................39

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1. About the department 1.1 Historical backgroundFrom the 1830s to 1893, the Royal Agricultural Society provided most of the agricultural information to the early settlers of Western Australia. In January 1894, the Bureau of Agriculture took over this role and the first experimental farm was established in Hamel, near Waroona in 1895. Experimental farms operated as demonstration farms and were used to train migrants and students of agriculture. In April 1898, the Bureau of Agriculture became the Department of Agriculture.

In the early 1920s, the Department of Agriculture set up a cadet training scheme in association with the University of Agriculture to produce professionally trained staff to take research results to farmers in the field. Graduates in agricultural science formed the core of the first advisory service.

In 1994, following a comprehensive review, three agencies (the Department of Agriculture, the Agriculture Protection Board, and the Rural Adjustment and Finance Corporation) were integrated to form a single agency.

In April 2006, the Department of Agriculture was renamed the Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia (DAFWA). This change highlighted the growing focus of the department on food and trade development, food marketing, health, sustainability, food integrity, regional food development, business and investment, global focus and innovation.

The Agriculture Protection Board (APB) was a statutory authority integrated within DAFWA. It was established under the Agriculture and Related Resources Protection Act 1976. Under the APB there were five related district authorities:

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Carnarvon Zone Control Authority Kalgoorlie Zone Control Authority Kimberley Zone Control Authority Meekatharra Zone Control Authority Pilbara Zone Control Authority

This act was repealed by section 34 of the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management (Repeal and Consequential Provisions) Act 2007 which came into effect on 18 December 2010.

The Biosecurity Council was established under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (BAM Act) and replaced the APB as the principal advisory body to the Minister on all biosecurity matters.

Administration of the Animal Welfare Act 2002 was transferred from the Department of Local Government to DAFWA on 1 July 2011.

1.2 Our roleDAFWA drives the economic development of Western Australia’s agriculture and food sector, with a focus on export-led growth. We work professionally and with integrity to help deliver meaningful results to industry, government and the community.

Supporting your successOur department’s role is to support the success of the state’s agrifood businesses by delivering our strategic plan and, in turn, achieving our vision of ‘a progressive, innovative and profitable agriculture and food sector that benefits Western Australia’.

We work with industries and businesses throughout the sector, helping them identify and capitalise on opportunities for growth as well as to manage and overcome obstacles.

We support all aspects of food and fibre production at each stage of the supply chain. This is achieved by building market knowledge and conducting innovative research and development and marketing and extension programs. We also develop and enforce regulations that ensure the production of high-quality, safe and healthy food for our customers in Australia and overseas.

Protecting our resources and industriesOur department has a pivotal role in helping to protect and enhance the state’s precious natural resources and valuable biosecurity status, and minimise the impact of climate variability. Our long-term commitment to biosecurity has helped maintain Western Australia's relative freedom from pests and diseases.

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Working with youOur highly skilled staff throughout Western Australia deliver a diverse range of services to agribusinesses right along the supply chain.

We collaborate with partners throughout the world to drive long-term profitability and generate innovation, knowledge and excellence in the sector.

Our activities also generate significant social and environmental benefits through research and development in the areas of land and water management, nature conservation, salinity, soil acidity and climate.

1.3 Strategic planThe department’s strategic direction is articulated through the following areas within our Strategic plan 2014–17, which has been structured to align with the Agrifood 2025+ initiative.

Our visionA progressive, innovative and profitable agriculture and food sector to benefit Western Australia.

Our purpose To support the success of the agriculture and food sector to benefit Western Australia.

Our focus areasDAFWA will support the growth of Western Australia’s agrifood sector in four key areas: markets, productivity, profitability and people.

We will do this in ways that sustain our land and water resources and increase the benefit we all gain from our relative freedom from weeds, pests and diseases.

1.4 Organisational StructureThe department is responsible to the Minister for Agriculture and Food. It is led by the Director General, and incorporates five directorates structured to support the Western Australian agrifood sector’s principal industry types and biosecurity and regulation activities. Each directorate has an Executive Director responsible for the following main areas of operation:

Biosecurity and RegulationThe Biosecurity and Regulation directorate develops policy, standards, delivery and regulatory systems and services that reduce the threat of invasive plants and animals to agriculture, and protect animals and plants from pests and diseases. The directorate focuses on prevention and eradication, and assisting industry and community with established agricultural biosecurity threats.

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https://agric.wa.gov.au/n/3269


The directorate additionally ensures minimal and effective chemical use, protects the welfare of animals, and facilitates prevention and mitigation of land degradation through the Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945.

Through these activities, the directorate works to preserve and expand market access for the Western Australian agricultural sector.

Business SupportThe Business Support directorate is committed to ensuring DAFWA continually tests and refines its business model, systems and capacity to meet the evolving needs of government, industry and the community. With key services including finance, people, communications and legal, as well as improving our business systems, facilities and information capabilities, we provide the suite of resources necessary for DAFWA to achieve its mission.

The directorate also incorporates the State Natural Resource Management (NRM) Office, which facilitates the coordinated delivery of natural resource management in Western Australia, and emergency management capability.

Industry directoratesEach industry directorate has an industry value chain focus supporting the success of the industry through strategic policy and planning; investment to drive innovation and economic growth; market and agribusiness development; natural resource management; industry based biosecurity planning and economic analysis. This is done through a collaborative approach with business, agribusiness and government at state, national and international levels.

The directorates are responsible for regional and people leadership, service delivery, the effective use of resources (people, assets and finance) and for project outcomes delivered by staff in the locations aligned to the directorate’s industry focus. They also deliver a significant contribution to cross organisational and regional issues, including biosecurity and regulation, which support the success of agriculture.

Industry directorate specific responsibilities are as follows:

Grains and Livestock IndustriesResponsible for all of the livestock industries’ projects as well as the regulatory and policy settings for the grains and livestock industries. This includes trade and investment attraction, agricultural skills and workforce development, building farm business capacity and related schemes of assistance. It is also the lead directorate for food and trade, and the Central and Southern agricultural regions.

Grains Research and Development TransformationResponsible for grains research and development (R and D), including projects in partnership with the Grains Research and Development Corporation and collaborators such as universities, CSIRO, grower groups and other state

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government departments. The projects focus on enabling Western Australia’s grain growers to increase their systems productivity and profitability.

The directorate is also supporting the transition of grains R and D delivery to a new model with greater industry involvement and private sector investment.

Irrigated AgricultureResponsible for all of the irrigated agriculture industries’ projects and is the lead directorate for the Northern agricultural region. It has responsibility for land and water assessment and climate policy.

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2. Legislation administered by the departmentDAFWA is responsible for administering the following legislation on behalf of the Minister for Agriculture and Food. Copies of Western Australian legislation and statutory information are available on the State Law Publisher's website.

Aerial Spraying Control Act 1966This Act provides for the regulation of aerial spraying of pesticides. It requires aerial spraying operators to be licensed and allows the declaration of areas in which the application of certain pesticides would be hazardous.

Agricultural Produce Commission Act 1988This Act establishes the Agricultural Produce Commission, with four members who have a broad understanding of agricultural industry and experience in financial management or other relevant experience. The Minister appoints one member to be chairperson.

The functions of the commission are to establish producer committees, provide for the operation of these committees and arrange for the provision of services by committees.

Producers committees may be established for specific crops or agricultural products and for specific localities. The committees provide services to the relevant producers for which the producers are charged.

Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Taxing) Act 1995This Act imposes certain fees referred to in Part 9 of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Western Australia) Act 1995 to the extent that any such fee may be a tax. The Constitution Acts Amendment Act 1899 requires that a Bill imposing taxation must deal only with the imposition of taxation. This means that any fees referred to in the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Western Australia) Act 1995 that are legally a tax cannot validly be imposed by that Act (which deals with other matters apart from the imposition of taxation). A separate Act is therefore required to impose whatever fees may be a tax.

Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Western Australia) Act 1995This Act applies the Commonwealth laws establishing the uniform national regulation scheme for agricultural and veterinary chemical products as laws of Western Australia.

Agriculture and Related Resources Protection Act 1976This Act provides for the control of declared plants and animals. Since the commencement of the provisions for control of declared pests under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 in 2013, the Agriculture and Related

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A/Director GeneralMark Webb

Biosecurity and Regulation

Executive DirectorKevin Chennell

Border BiosecurityDirector

Greg Pickles

DAFWA Diagnostic Laboratory Services

DirectorAndrew Gregory

Invasive SpeciesDirector

Viv Read

Livestock BiosecurityA/DirectorPeter Gray

Plant BiosecurityA/Director

John van Schagen

Animal Welfare Regulation

Manager (non SLT)Tony Higgs

Soil Commissioner(non SLT)

Andrew Watson

Business SupportExecutive Director

Jim Eftos

AssetsDirector

George Nunn

CommunicationsDirector

Scott Heffernan

Emergency ManagementDirector

Sarah Plant

FinanceDirector

Mandy Taylor

InformationDirector

Trevor Nullmeyers

LegalA/Director

Felicity Heffernan

PeopleDirector

Kim Waller

State NRMManager (non SLT)

John Holley

Grains R&D Transformation

Executive DirectorMark Sweetingham

Grains Research & InnovationDirector

Rob Loughman

GrainsWest Business DevelopmentA/Director

Jason Moynihan

Irrigated AgricultureExecutive Director

John Ruprecht

Agri-business and Irrigation Development

Director(vacant)

Horticulture DevelopmentDirector

David Windsor

Land & Water AssessmentDirector

Melanie Strawbridge

Regional Leadership & Operations,

Northern RegionDirector

Mike Bowley

RfR Ag. Sciences R&DDirector (non SLT)

Andy Paterson

Grains & Livestock Industries

Executive DirectorPeter Metcalfe

Beef Industry DevelopmentDirector

Brad McCormick

Food, Trade & Agribusiness Development

Director(vacant)


Central RegionDirector

Pam I'Anson


Southern RegionDirector

Neil Guise

Sheep Industry Development

DirectorBruce Mullan

Audit and IntegrityDirector

Alexandra Filipe

Strategy and Governance

A/DirectorCathy Lyons

https://www.slp.wa.gov.au/


Resources Protection Act is only used for the regulated control of one declared animal, the European House Borer.

Animal Welfare Act 2002This Act provides for the welfare of animals by regulating the use of animals for scientific purposes and making it an offence to be cruel to an animal in any way including certain specified ways. It also makes it an offence to possess something with the intention of using it to inflict cruelty on an animal and to engage in prohibited activities such as shooting, hunting or fighting animals. Inspectors under the Act have powers to ensure animals are removed from harm if necessary and provided with food, water and shelter. These Inspectors include inspectors who are employed, and nominated for appointment, by the RSPCA.

Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007The Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (BAM Act) and regulations under it, replace 17 now repealed Acts within the Agriculture Portfolio. The Act is designed to prevent pests and diseases from entering the state and to minimise the spread and impact of any that are present within the state. The Act also establishes controls in relation to agricultural and veterinary chemicals, fertilisers and stock feeds and to ensure that agricultural products are not contaminated with chemical residues or other substances. It also has the capacity to recognise and support industry standards for agricultural products.

The BAM Act establishes the Western Australian Agriculture Authority (WAAA) and the Biosecurity Council.

WAAA is a new body corporate that replaces the body corporate that was previously established under the now repealed Agriculture Act 1988. WAAA is not a regulatory body. It facilitates aspects of the Department of Agriculture and Food’s business which can be conducted more effectively by a body corporate.

The Biosecurity Council is appointed by the Minister and has replaced the Agriculture Protection Board as a principal source of advice to the Minister and the Director General on biosecurity matters.

Regulations have been made under the BAM Act establishing industry funding schemes for the grains, seed and hay industry, the cattle industry and the sheep and goat industry. The schemes provide funds for control programs for pests of concern to these industries and for compensating producers for losses caused by these pests. The schemes are funded by contributions paid by producers.

There is provision in the Act for rates to be imposed on land in prescribed areas to fund pest control measures in these areas. The rates amounts collected are matched by funds from the Consolidated Account. These funds are transferred to recognised biosecurity groups operating in the relevant areas to fund pest control work by those groups.

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Biological Control Act 1986This Act provides a scheme for authorising the biological control of pests, that is, the control of one live organism with another. The scheme has been implemented nationally through the enactment of uniform legislation in each State, and by the Commonwealth, and by uniformly administered schemes.

Bulk Handling Act 1967This Act makes provision for the handling of grain in bulk by the company registered and known as Cooperative Bulk Handling Limited (CBH).

CBH is required to install, maintain and operate bins for the reception and handling of grain in bulk. These facilities are required to be established at reasonable sites throughout the state, for the convenience of farmers. The company is authorised to charge for its services, and is self-funding.

CBH sets the standards which apply from time to time to grain which it receives. These standards are prescribed in regulations. Their purpose is to ensure, as far as is reasonably possible, that grain which is available to be exported from Australia to overseas countries is of a known standard and free of insects.

Exotic Diseases of Animals Act 1993This Act provides for the detection, containment and eradication of certain diseases affecting livestock. It is the legislative base for Western Australia’s participation in the national plan for response to emergencies involving exotic animal diseases. The Act contains extensive provisions for the quarantining of animals, places and products and for restrictions on the movement of animals, vehicles and products.

Genetically Modified Crops Free Areas Act 2003This Act allows the Minister to make an order designating an area of the state, or the whole of the state, as an area in which genetically modified (GM) crops of any kind may not be cultivated or in which a particular GM crop may not be cultivated. It is an offence to cultivate a GM crop in an area where this is prohibited.

The prohibition does not apply to licensed field trials or if the cultivation is covered by an exemption order.

Gene Technology Act 2006This Act regulates activities involving gene technology when those activities are not covered by the Commonwealth Gene Technology Act. The Act provides for protection of the health and safety of people and the environment by identifying risks posed by, or as a result of, gene technology, and managing those risks by regulating certain dealings with genetically modified organisms.

The Act is the Western Australian component of a national regulatory scheme for activities involving gene technology and genetically modified organisms. The principal component is the Commonwealth Gene Technology Act 2000, which

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establishes the Gene Technology Regulator. The regulatory framework operates in conjunction with other Commonwealth and state regulatory schemes relevant to genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and GM products. These include the existing schemes for the regulation of foods, therapeutic goods, agricultural and veterinary chemicals, and industrial chemicals.

Industrial Hemp Act 2004This Act allows licenses to be issued to authorise the cultivation, harvesting or processing of industrial hemp. Industrial hemp is defined as cannabis containing less than 0.35 per cent of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Licences are issued by a Registrar after considering a licence application and making any necessary investigations as to the suitability of the applicant to hold a licence.

Loans (Cooperative Companies) Act 2004This Act enables the State to make loans to certain cooperative companies.

Provisions of this Act enable the Minister, acting on behalf of, and in the name of the State, to make a loan to an eligible cooperative for a purpose mentioned under the Act and in section 120(1)(c) of the Income Tax Act. The provisions of this Act also enable the Minister, if the Treasurer approves, to borrow sums of money from the Western Australian Treasury Corporation for the purposes of the Act.

Marketing of Potatoes Act 1946This Act regulates the production and supply of ware potatoes (domestic potatoes for human consumption). It requires the registration of growers, the licensing of areas of land used for the production of potatoes and the issue of domestic market entitlements. The regulated supply system is administered by the Potato Marketing Corporation of Western Australia.

Ord River Dam Catchment Area (Straying Cattle) Act 1967This Act vests in the Crown the property in cattle found at large in the Ord River Dam area. It was enacted in 1967 and provides that, after 1 January 1969, such cattle as are found at large in a prescribed area may be collected and disposed of as the Minister sees fit. The original area was extended twice, in 1970 and 1985, to now cover all agricultural areas and the shores of Lake Argyle.

Royal Agricultural Society Act 1926

This Act provides for the affiliation of agricultural societies throughout the state with the Royal Agricultural Society.

Rural Business Development Corporation Act 2000

This Act preserves and continues the body corporate previously known as the Rural Adjustment and Finance Corporation (RAFCOR) as the Rural Business Development Corporation.

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The functions of the corporation are to administer approved assistance schemes funded by the State and Commonwealth.

The corporation has powers to acquire and deal with land and personal property for the purposes of an approved assistance scheme. An approved assistance scheme is a scheme that:

a) states the purpose and nature of financial assistance that may be given under the scheme

b) identifies the categories of persons eligible for assistance under the scheme

c) Is approved by the Minister and the Treasurer.

Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945This Act provides for the conservation of soil and land resources and for the mitigation of the effects of erosion, salinity and flooding. For these purposes it creates a Commissioner of Soil and Land Conservation. The functions of the Commissioner extend to the encouragement of landholders and the public generally, and education in conservation matters.

Where necessary, Soil Conservation Notices can be issued to direct that specified works be carried out. It is possible to register such a notice on a land title, so that the requirements are carried forward if the property changes hands. There is a right of appeal to the State Administrative Tribunal against a Soil Conservation Notice.

To bring conservation to the farm level, the Act establishes Land Conservation Districts and Land Conservation District Committees. These are empowered to manage specific projects in conjunction with the Commissioner and to assist in other ways. They provide a focus for community action and involvement. Rates or service charges may be imposed to fund projects under the Act.

Tree Plantation Agreements Act 2003 This Act provides for the making and effect of tree plantation agreements and for the creation of a plantation interest as a separate legal interest in land when a tree plantation is registered in relation to that land.

Veterinary Surgeons Act 1960This Act regulates the practice of veterinary surgery. It establishes the Veterinary Surgeons' Board, a body corporate with five members. The membership comprises an officer of the Department of Agriculture and Food, two non-affiliated representatives of registered veterinary surgeons, one representative of the Australian Veterinary Association and one Ministerial nominee.

The Act establishes a Registrar of Veterinary Surgeons appointed by the Board, who has power to register persons with appropriate qualifications, including temporary veterinary surgeons and specialist veterinary surgeons. Only registered persons are

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permitted to practice. The Act provides mechanisms for dealing with allegations of professional misconduct by veterinary surgeons.

Western Australian Meat Industry Authority Act 1976This Act establishes the Western Australian Meat Industry Authority, provides for a system of approval of abattoirs and regulates the branding of animal carcasses.

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3. Bodies related to the departmentPursuant to clause 2(4) of the Glossary to the FOI Act, the Freedom of Information Regulations 1993 declares that certain bodies are regarded as being part of DAFWA for the purposes of the FOI Act.

The department is responsible for processing and responding to all applications lodged under the FOI Act on behalf of the following bodies:

3.1 Agricultural Produce Commission

RoleThe Agricultural Produce Commission (APC) is a statutory authority established under the Agricultural Produce Commission Act of 1988 (APC Act) comprising of four Commissioners appointed by the Minister for Agriculture and Food.

The role of the APC is to form Producers’ Committees and provide governance and other services to those Committees in accordance with the functions set out in the APC Act.

Mission StatementThe APC facilitates the growth and prosperity of agricultural industries through Producers’ Committees initiated and funded research and development programs.

APC Producers’ Committees are established with the object of enhancing and protecting the producer’s investment in their industry through facilitating and managing producer industry based programs in a wide range of areas that include product and market development; improving production and handling systems and management of biosecurity risks.

FunctionsThe APC operates under the following functions, which are set out in section 6 of the APC Act:

(a) establish producers’ committees in relation to agricultural produce(b) appoint members to producers’ committees(c) advertise for the formation of producers’ committees (d) conduct polls as prescribed under this Act for the purposes of the

establishment and operation of producers’ committees (e) dissolve producers’ committees and appoint liquidators for the winding up of

producers’ committees (f) provide such services in relation to the functioning of producers’ committees

as are necessary from time to time (g) direct, co-ordinate and supervise the functioning and expenditure of

producers’ committees(h) provide such other service to producers’ committees as the Minister may

direct.

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The Commission is also responsible for the following subsidiary legislation:

Agricultural Produce (Egg Production Industry) Regulations 2006 Agricultural Produce (Pork Production Industry) Regulations 2004 Agricultural Produce (Beekeeping Industry) Regulations 2003 Agricultural Produce (Horticultural Industry) Regulations 2001 Agricultural Produce (Prescribed Agricultural Industries and Services)

Regulations 2001 Producers Committees (Polling) Regulations 1990

Publically accessible documentsThe APC has formal directions which assist Producers’ Committees in carrying out their functions, as well as the APC’s Code of Conduct and Committee Procedural Manual. These documents can be located on the APC’s website .

3.2 Land Conservation District Committees

RoleLand Conservation District Committees (LCDCs) are statutory committees established under section 23 of the Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945 (SLC Act) to administer Land Conservation Districts in accordance with an Order proclaimed by the Governor of Western Australia. Their main function is to promote land management and to undertake related projects

The following Committees are currently active:

Ashburton Land Conservation District Committee Bruce Rock Land Conservation District Committee Capel Land Conservation District Committee Carnamah Land Conservation District Committee Carnarvon Land Conservation District Committee Chittering Valley Land Conservation District Committee Coolup Land Conservation District Committee Coorow Land Conservation District Committee Cue Land Conservation District Committee Dandalup-Murray Land Conservation District Committee De Grey Land Conservation District Committee Dumbleyung Land Conservation District Committee Katanning Land Conservation District Committee Kellerberrin Land Conservation District Committee Kent River Land Conservation District Committee Lake Grace Land Conservation District Committee Lower Blackwood Land Conservation District Committee Merredin Land Conservation District Committee Morawa Land Conservation District Committee Mount Marshall Land Conservation District Committee North Kimberley Land Conservation District Committee

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http://www.apcwa.org.au/


North Swan Land District Committee Nullarbor-Eyre Highway Land Conservation District Committee Nyabing/Pingrup Land Conservation District Committee Piawaning/Yerecoin Land Conservation District Committee Pithara/Dalwallinu Land Conservation District Committee Quairading Land Conservation District Committee Ravensthorpe Land Conservation District Committee Roebourne/Port Hedland Land Conservation District Committee Serpentine/Jarrahdale Land Conservation District Committee Tunney Land Conservation District Committee Upper Gascoyne Land Conservation District Committee Waddy Forest Land Conservation District Committee Wagin Land Conservation District Committee West Kimberley Land Conservation District Committee West Koojan/Gillingarra Land Conservation District Committee Woodanilling Land Conservation District Committee Yallingup Land Conservation District Committee

3.3 Rural Business Development Corporation

RoleThe Rural Business Development Corporation (RBDC) is established under section 5 of the Rural Business Development Corporation Act 2000 (RBDC Act) and consists of five directors appointed by the Minister for Agriculture and Food.The role of the RBDC is to administer approved assistance schemes for the farm sector on behalf of the Western Australian state government and deliver other services for the benefit of rural industry.

Mission StatementTo improve the long-term profitability and viability of farm businesses, leading to an internationally competitive and sustainable farm sector in Western Australia.

FunctionsUnder section 7 of the RBDC Act, the functions of the RBDC are set to:

(a) administer approved assistance schemes and to ensure that such schemes administered by the Corporation are properly and fairly administered

(b) give directly the financial assistance to be given under approved assistance schemes administered by the Corporation

(c) provide moneys to a department of the Public Service, or to an agency or instrumentality of the Crown, for the purposes of the financial assistance to be given under an approved assistance scheme administered by the department, agency or instrumentality

(d) carry out research into, and develop policies on issues affecting persons likely to be given financial assistance under the Act

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(e) review and give advice to the Minister on: (i) proposed assistance schemes(ii) the implement approved assistance schemes(iii) economic and other conditions in the rural sector

(f) perform other functions given to the Corporation under this Act or another Act(g) perform any other functions that may be prescribed.

Publically accessible documentsThe RBDC’s annual report and Customer Service Charter can be located on the department’s website.

3.4 Veterinary Surgeons’ Board

RoleThe Veterinary Surgeons’ Board (VSB) is the statutory authority responsible for administering the Veterinary Surgeons’ Act 1960. The role of the VSB is to regulate in the public interest, the practice of veterinary surgery in Western Australia.

FunctionsThe VSB consists of five members appointed by the Governor and is responsible for:

registering persons holding approved qualifications as veterinary surgeons or veterinary specialists

registering the practice of veterinary surgery bodies corporate registering premises for use as veterinary hospitals or veterinary clinics approving qualified persons to carry out the duties of veterinary nurses and

authorises persons enrolled in approved courses to perform the duties of trainee veterinary nurses

authorising non registered persons to perform prescribed veterinary services ensuring the maintenance of appropriate professional standards by registered

veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses, trainee veterinary nurses, veterinary students and authorised persons

investigating allegations of unprofessional conduct against veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses

where appropriate, referring cases to the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) or the Magistrates Court for the prosecution of persons who have allegedly breached the Act

recommending the level of prescribed fees pertaining to the administration of the Act.

Publically accessible documentsThe VSB publishes a quarterly newsletter which is issued to all registered veterinary surgeons and nurses, containing information regarding current issues for the veterinary profession in Western Australia and other relevant topics. Other publications are also available on the VSB's website.

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http://www.vsbwa.org.au/



3.5 Western Australian Meat Industry Authority

Role The Western Australian Meat Industry Authority (WAMIA) is established under the Western Australian Meat Industry Authority Act 1976.

FunctionsGoverned by a board, the following functions are carried out by WAMIA:

Surveys, and keeps under review, the establishments and facilities available in the state for the sale of livestock and for the slaughter of animals and the processing of carcases for human consumption.

Inspects, and where appropriate, approves the premises, facilities and operations of saleyards, processing establishments and works, and records in respect of each establishment its effective capacity and actual performance.

Implements schemes and practices for the branding of carcases or meat, to define and identify source, methods of production, processing treatments, quality and other characteristics.

Manages the Muchea Livestock Centre. Encourages and promotes improved efficiency throughout the meat industry. advises the Minister generally, and in particular as to:

o methods of overcoming areas of conflicting interest within the meat and livestock industries

o future requirements for saleyards, processing establishments and works

o any matter relating to the meat industry referred to it by the Minister, or any matter that it considers necessary.

Carries out such other functions as are required to give effect to the Act generally, in relation to saleyards, processing establishments, and other facilities, undertakings or activities in the meat industry.

Publically accessible documentsInformation regarding yardings, market reports and special sales are available on WAMIA’s website.

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http://www.wamia.wa.gov.au/


4. Policy formulation and performance DAFWA is responsible for identifying key strategic issues and direction in the agricultural and food sector and providing pro-active, informed and timely advice to industry, government and community bodies.

The strategic directions of our projects are set through consultation and working closely with external stakeholders to ensure we are highly responsive to changing industry and community needs.

Members of the public can participate in the formulation of policy generally through submissions and feedback to the department or the Minister for Agriculture and Food.

4.1 Committees involving non-government participationThe following bodies are administered by the department and involve non-government participation.

4.11 Animal Ethics CommitteeRole

The Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) ensures, on behalf of DAFWA (who have ultimate responsibility), that all activities involving the care and use of animals for scientific purposes comply with the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes 2013 (Scientific Use Code).

DAFWA’s AEC ensures that the use of animals is justified, provides for the welfare of those animals, incorporates the principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement and monitors ongoing activities. This is achieved by developing and approving guidelines for the care of animals, as well as monitoring the acquisition,

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transport, production, housing, care, use and fate of animals acquired, bred, held or used for scientific purposes.

Importantly, through the membership of the AEC, the Scientific Use Code requires input from the wider community in the oversight of these activities. Therefore, the effective operation of the AEC in all aspects of its responsibilities is central to ensuring that a scientific establishment meets its responsibilities under the Code.

Membership

The requirements for an appropriately constituted AEC are defined by the Scientific Use Code. An AEC must comprise at least four people, with at least one person from each of the following categories:

a person with qualifications in veterinary science (Category A) a person with substantial recent experience in the use of animals in scientific

or teaching activities (Category B) a person with demonstrated commitment to animal welfare — where possible,

this person should be nominated by an animal welfare organisation (Category C)

an independent person who does not currently, and has not previously, conducted scientific or teaching activities using animals (Category D).

AECs may contain additional members. To ensure that animal welfare issues remain a priority, combined Category C and D members must make up at least one third of the total Committee membership.

Appointments shall be made by, or on behalf of the department’s Director General. Persons may be selected for appointment either by invitation or by application and must meet the criteria of the relevant Category to which they are appointed. Appointment of all members shall be in writing. Members of DAFWA’s AEC shall be appointed for a four year term upon acceptance of a written offer.

Contact

Arrangements for the selection and appointment of AEC members are coordinated by DAFWA’s AEC Executive Officer. For further information, please contact the department by phone on +61 (0)8 9368 3333.

4.12 Land Conservation District CommitteesRole

Land Conservation District Committees (LCDCs) are statutory committees established under section 23 of the Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945 (SLC Act) to administer Land Conservation Districts in accordance with an Order proclaimed by the Governor of Western Australia in Council. Their main function is to promote land management and to undertake related projects.

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Membership

Membership of LCDCs is set out in the SLC Act and includes:

the Commissioner of Soil and Land Conservation or his/her nominee representative(s) of the relevant local government(s) in the district (can be a

councillor, employee of the local government or other person) a total of three persons representing the Western Australian Farmers

Federation (WAFF) and/or the Pastoralists and Graziers Association (PGA), if agricultural and pastoral activities are a major land use within the district (does not have to be a member of WAFF or PGA, although this will usually be the case)

such other number of persons from the local community required to complete the membership, being people or organisations who are actively engaged in land use within the district (generally referred to as the 'land user' category).

A person wishing to nominate to be a 'land user' member of an LCDC has the opportunity to do so at any time a committee is due for reappointment. Members generally serve a maximum term of three years.

The relevant LCDC will advertise a public meeting calling for nominations for the committee. To be eligible for membership, a nominee must be actively engaged in land use within the district.

A person wishing to nominate to be a member of an LCDC for the first time should complete a nomination form prior to commencement of the public meeting. People intending to renominate need to give notice of their intention to renominate. These should then be handed to the Chairperson prior to the public meeting

The number of members on a particular LCDC is set by the Order establishing the district, which varies between LCDCs. The Commissioner of Soil and Land Conservation approves all appointments.

Contact

For further information, please contact the Commissioner of Soil and Land Conservation by phone on +61 (0)8 9368 3282.

4.13 Industry Funding Scheme Management CommitteesRole

Industry Funding Scheme management committees are formed by regulation under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (BAM Act). Their role is to oversee the management of Industry Funding Schemes.

There are currently Industry Funding Schemes in operation for the grain/seed/hay industry; the sheep/goat industry; and the cattle industry. The schemes use funding arrangements authorised under the BAM Act, whereby producers can raise funds to tackle priority pests and diseases.

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Membership

Members of the management committee must satisfy the requirements of a ‘full participant’ of the Scheme concerned, as defined by the regulations, or have appropriate have knowledge, experience or interest in the relevant industry. Potential IMC members must also have:

the ability to think strategically and to act decisively; a desire to serve the industry concerned; and effective personal networks within the industry concerned.

Committee members are appointed by the Minister for Agriculture and Food, on the advice of an industry-based Appointments Committee. A public call for nominations takes place approximately six months before membership terms expire. The majority of the committee must consist of producers that contribute to the Scheme (i.e. ‘full participants’).

Contact

For further information, please contact Rebecca Heath, Development Officer, Biosecurity and Regulation by phone on +61 (0)8 9690 2171.

4.14 Recognised Biosecurity GroupsRole

A Recognised Biosecurity Group (RBG) is a mechanism under the Biosecurity and Agricultural Management Act 2007 (BAM Act) which enables landholders and managers to develop a coordinated approach for declared pest control in their area.

A RGB provides the basis for shared responsibility and funding in controlling declared pests and enables communities and industry to partner with others, including state government agencies. RBGs are DAFWA’s preferred partnership arrangement for widespread and established declared pest management

They provide a framework to foster efficiency through partnership arrangements to make the best use of skills, funds, capacities, incentives and regulations to control declared pests.

A biosecurity group that that is formed in an area for the purpose of declared pest control may be recognised under section 169 of the BAM Act by the Minister for Agriculture and Food. The BAM Act does not formally detail a process for recognition, however for a prospective RBG to be recognised it must:

undertake activities consistent with the BAM Act; operate at a scale to effectively control declared pests across landscapes; have the capacity to manage any public funds it receives; and have legitimate authority within its community to decide how to use these

funds.

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Membership

A prospective RBG submits an Expression of Interest to the Minister addressing the above points including the group’s consent to be formally recognised. DAFWA’s Director General (or delegate) will advise the Minister about prospective RBGs.

They are incorporated associations managed exclusively by a committee comprised of association members. RBGs have full and associate membership. The RBG’s constitutional rules will lay out their membership requirements.

Contact

For further information, please contact Barney Dzowa, Manager RBG Systems, Biosecurity and Regulation by phone on +61 (0)8 9780 6152.

Additional information for biosecurity groups intending to become recognised is available on the department’s website.

4.15 Biosecurity Council of Western AustraliaRole

The Biosecurity Council of Western Australia (the Council) is a specialist advisory group to the Minister for Agriculture and Food and the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia. Establishing the Council is a requirement under the BAM Act.

The principle role of the Council is to provide advice to the Minister and Director General on any matter related to biosecurity, whether referred to the Council by the Minister or Director General, or of its own motion.

Membership

The Council comprises at least seven members, the majority of whom are experienced or actively involved in agricultural, fishing or pearling or related commercial activities, natural resource management, environmental protection or regional communities. Specifically, people with knowledge or expertise in one or more of the following areas are sought:

animal and/or plant based primary industries protection of the terrestrial and/or aquatic environments, and/or conservation

of the diversity of indigenous flora and fauna natural resource management policy and/or service delivery intra and interstate marketing, trade and/or transport of livestock, food

products or goods governance of local communities and/or regional economies, public amenity

and health, recreation and/or tourism emergency incident planning and risk management science and/or business management.

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A call for nominations is advertised when a vacancy occurs.

Contact

For further information, please contact Rebecca Heath, Development Officer, Biosecurity and Regulation by phone on +61 (0)8 9690 2171.

4.2 Complaints and feedbackAn effective complaints management system is an essential component of the department’s provision of quality services to the community and industry. By measuring and monitoring customer satisfaction, we obtain useful information and feedback for improving our service delivery.

Should you wish to submit a complaint or feedback regarding a particular issue, a form is available on the department’s website.

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5. Documents held by the department5.1 Subjects of documentsDetailed below are broad categories of the department’s functions. The department creates documents in response to the activities and projects we undertake in these areas. In addition to the these categories, DAFWA also holds general documents in relation to administration, finance and accounting, human resources and contracts.

Climate, land and waterDAFWA supports the agriculture sector’s need for access to productive soil and water resources by providing long-term management solutions, practical risk management strategies and tools to maintain and improve resource conditions, to meet the needs of industry and stakeholders. DAFWA is also pioneering soil and water investigation of the State’s undeveloped areas to establish new irrigated agricultural industries.

CropsDAFWA supports the growth and international competitiveness of all crop industries in Western Australia from rain-fed winter cereals through to irrigated horticultural crops through significant direct investment in research, development and extension capability and activities, infrastructure, and policy development.

Livestock and animalsDAFWA supports the livestock and animal industries through supply chain support, research and development and rigorous biosecurity systems which underpin the economic success of the livestock industry.

DAFWA administers the Animal Welfare Act 2002 which involves ensuring compliance by people in charge of animals with industry and community standards and where necessary enforcement actions if standards are not met.

Pests, weeds and diseasesTo reduce the impact of pests, weeds and diseases, DAFWA works with landholders, grower groups, community groups and biosecurity groups; provides diagnostic services and information on prevention, management and treatment; provides biosecurity and quarantine measures to prevent introduction, and to eradicate or manage current pests.

Food, export and investmentDAFWA supports the agrifood sector which produces high-quality, safe and healthy agricultural, food and fibre products for domestic and international markets. DAFWA also works to identify and develop international market opportunities for agrifood businesses and attract investment into the State.

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Biosecurity and quarantineDAFWA works with primary industries to safeguard our agricultural resources from biological threats and to maintain our export opportunities. DAFWA is involved with creation of surveillance and diagnostic programs; animal and plant risk assessments; importing and exporting requirements; creating mechanisms to respond to incursions; livestock movement and identification; development and maintenance of biosecurity and quarantine legislation.

5.2 Information management

Compliance with the State Records Act 2000Under the State Records Act 2000 (SR Act) the department is required to have an approved Recordkeeping Plan. This plan sets out how records are created, how records will be managed, and for what period of time the department is required to retain records before they are destroyed. The department’s Recordkeeping Plan was approved in 2015 and is updated regularly in accordance with Section 28(5) of the SR Act to provide an accurate reflection of any developments or organisational and legislative changes.

Our document management systemThe department has an Enterprise Document and Records Management System (EDRMS) which is used by our staff to store and manage corporate information in the form of electronic, hard copy and digitised records. All documents registered in the EDRMS are contained in subject specific files which are divided into areas based on our organisational structure.

The department also maintains a number of other functional corporate databases and information systems to record customer information and other data.

Customer privacyThe collection of personal information about members of the public occurs regularly in the department. Although the state public sector in Western Australia does not currently have any legislative privacy conditions, all personal information collected by the department is managed in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles as contained in schedule 3 of the Commonwealth Privacy Act 1988.

Personal information about our customers is also protected by the department's Privacy and Confidentiality Policy. The department’s policy framework details procedures in place to prevent the misuse of personal information within or by the department, with specific procedures relating to each area of the department that obtains, uses and stores personal information.

The release of information that is considered personal is generally governed by the FOI Act.

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6. Publicly accessible documents The department aims to make information available promptly and at the lowest reasonable cost. Whenever possible, DAFWA will grant access to documents outside the Freedom of Information process.

6.1 Library servicesThe department’s Library contains an extensive collection of agricultural books, reports and journals with an emphasis on Western Australia. The Library primarily supports the work of DAFWA; however, the information can be accessed by industry and members of the public. The library catalogue is available to the public via its website. The Library also contributes catalogue information to the National Library of Australia, which can be searched from the Trove search service and participates in the national system for interlibrary loans.

Members of the public are able to view items at our South Perth Offices from the collection and to photocopy material for research or private study within the confines of the Copyright Act 1968. The public is not able to use the Library’s online resources due to commercial licence restrictions.

The Library is open from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Location:

Department of Agriculture and Food WA3 Baron Hay CourtSouth Perth

Email: [email protected]

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http://trove.nla.gov.au/

http://agric.firstsoftwaresolutions.com/


Telephone: +61 (0)8 9368 3985

6.1.1 Online Research LibraryThe department’s online Research Library is a public repository of research produced by our staff. Its goal is to capture, preserve and promote the intellectual output of authors associated with DAFWA and their continuing contribution to agricultural science, investigations into our state’s soil, water and pasture resources and the protection and development of Western Australian agricultural industries.

The Research Library’s intended audience is the research community, but it is also available to members of the public.

To browse the resources available, visit the Research Library’s website.

6.2 PublicationsThe department produces an extensive range of publications, including fact sheets, technical information and industry development advice. Frequently used information is generally available through the department’s website. Publications are available as linked html pages. This meets the accessibility requirements for WA Government websites. The ‘print’ function on DAFWA’s website will produce a ‘booklet’ for printing. Webpages may also link to pdf or Word versions if available.

Some items are available for sale. For a list of chargeable publications please visit the department’s website.

An archival collection of the department’s older and hard copy only publications are searchable via the Library catalogue, by contacting the library or from the Research Library’s website.

Copies of our publications are available in alternative formats upon request.

6.3 Internal manualsThe Department produces a number of internal manuals and policies. Their primary purpose is to provide advice to our staff in the exercise of their duties and to be an ongoing guide, reviewed and amended as required.

In accordance with section 97 of the FOI Act, the department’s internal manuals are available for inspection and purchase on request.

Enquiries can be sent by post to:

Freedom of Information CoordinatorDepartment of Agriculture and FoodLocked Bag No 4Bentley Delivery Centre WA 6983Telephone: +61 (0)8 9368 3386Fax: +61 (0)8 9368 5935

Email: [email protected]

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http://researchlibrary.agric.wa.gov.au/





6.4 Photography and imagesThe department’s photographic studio has an extensive photographic collection stored in our internal image library.

Apart from general permissions under the Copyright Act 1968 for use of information for the purposes of personal research and study, DAFWA’s photos may not be reproduced or reused for any commercial purposes, or posted to another website, without prior written permission of the Western Australian Agriculture Authority. If you would like to apply for copyright clearance, please complete the online Copyright request form available on the department’s website.

Alternatively, enquiries can be sent by post to:

Copyright requestsDAFWA LibraryDepartment of Agriculture and Food WA3 Baron Hay CourtSouth Perth

Contact information:

Phone +61 (0)8 9368 3985Email: [email protected]

6.7 Maps and dataThe department’s Geographic Information Services (GIS) maintains information about farming properties and natural resource information across Western Australia.

GIS offers customers a range of maps and datasets relating to soils, vegetation, climate and farm planning. These are available for a prescribed charge and are also supplied through the Shared Land Information Platform (SLIP). In addition, GIS can produce custom maps and carry out analysis of spatial data for many purposes based on work with government and industry over the last two decades.

A range of web map portals can be accessed from the department’s web site and can be used to view and interrogate many of these datasets.

To request data, a custom map product or data analysis contact GIS.

Phone: +64 (0)8 9368 3925Email: [email protected].

6.7.1 Online mapping portalsThe following mapping portals are available for users to interactively view live spatial data. These portals contain spatial datasets, including department custodian datasets.

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Find your Farm – allows you to locate and view infrastructure and physical data as well as socioeconomic data relating to any farm in WA.

Natural Resource Management (NRM) information – allows you to view and query state NRM data from across government.

To request data, a custom map product or data analysis

6.7.2 Station plansPastoral Lease Infrastructure Plans are available to members of the public on request with permission of the lease owner for a prescribed charge. The Permission to release a copy of the station plan form is available on the department’s website.

6.8 Employee informationInformation about the department’s former and current employees is stored in individual hardcopy personnel files.

Requests from former employees of the department to access their personnel file can be sent by post to:

Director People BranchLocked Bag No 4Bentley Delivery Centre WA 6983

Alternatively, former employees can contact the Manager Personnel Services by phone on +61 (0)8 9368 3915.

6.9 Fees and charges bookletCharges for our products and services are available in the department’s Services, products and fees booklet on our website.

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http://maps.agric.wa.gov.au/nrminfo/

http://spatial.agric.wa.gov.au/findyourfarm/


7. Freedom of Information (FOI) operations The department aims to make information available promptly and at the least possible cost, and whenever possible, provide documents outside of the Freedom of Information process. In circumstances where information is not routinely available, the FOI Act the right to apply for documents held by the department

Under the FOI Act, members of the public also have the right to apply for the amendment of their personal information contained in documents held by the Department if that information is inaccurate, incomplete, out of date or misleading.

7.1 How to lodge a FOI applicationAccess applications have to:

be in writing; give enough information so that the documents requested can be identified; give an Australian address to which notices can be sent; and be lodged at the department with any application fee payable.

A Freedom of Information application form is available on the department’s website.

Applications and enquiries can be sent by post to:

Freedom of Information CoordinatorDepartment of Agriculture and FoodLocked Bag No 4Bentley Delivery Centre WA 6983Telephone: +61 (0)8 9368 3386Fax: +61 (0)8 9368 5935

Contact information:

Phone +61 (0)8 9368 3386Email: [email protected]

To expedite processing of a Freedom of Information request, you should identify as clearly as possible the documents you wish to access and the form of access required, for example photocopies of inspection reports, etc.

7.2 Charges for lodging a FOI application

Mandatory chargesA scale of fees and charges is set out in Schedule 1 to the Freedom of Information Regulations 1993. If your application requests access to non-personal information; a document that contains personal information about a third party (other than the applicant), a $30 application fee applies. This payment is required at the time of lodging the application. If you are lodging an application in person, the fee can be

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paid in cash, cheque or money order. If you are posting your application, a cheque or money order should be made payable to the Department of Agriculture and Food.

Types of fees

Type of fee ChargePersonal information about the applicant $30.00Application fee (for non-personal information) No fee

Other types of feesWhere the processing of an application is likely to divert a substantial and unreasonable portion of the department’s resources away from its other operations, the department may decide to impose charges. However, apart from the application fee for non-personal information all charges are discretionary. The charges that may be used are as follows:

Type of fee ChargeCharge for time dealing with the application (per hour or pro rata) $30.00Access time supervised by staff (per hour or pro rata) $30.00Photocopying staff time (per hour or pro rata) $30.00Per photocopy 20 centsTranscribing from tape, film or computer $30.00Duplicating a tape, film or computer information Actual costDelivery, packaging and postage Actual cost

Deposits

Deposit requirementsPercentage

of total charge

Advance deposit is required of the estimated charges 25%Further advance deposit may be required to meet the chargesfor dealing with the application 75%

For financially disadvantaged applicants or those issuedwith prescribed pensioner concession cards, the charge payable is reduced by

25%

7.3 Access arrangementsWhen you lodge an application, you can request to access documents in electronic or hardcopy form, or by way of inspection.

7.4 Notice of decisionThe final decision to release or deny access to a document lies with the Decision Maker responsible for the branch or directorate in which the documents are held or used. This decision is normally made in consultation with the Freedom of Information Coordinator.

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The department is required to issue you with a notice of its decision as soon as practicable, but in any case within 45 days of receiving a valid application.

A notice of decision will include information such as:

the date the decision was made; the name and the designation of the officer who made the decision; if the document is an exempt document, the reasons for classifying the matter

exempt; if the document contains exempt matter, the reasons for classifying the matter

exempt and for giving access to an edited copy; information on the right to review and the procedures to be followed to

exercise those rights.

7.5 Refusal of access Applicants who are dissatisfied with a decision of the department are entitled to ask for an internal review by the department. Your application for review must be made in writing and lodged at the department within 30 days of receiving the notice of decision. An independent officer of the department will undertake the internal review and you will be notified of the outcome of the review within 15 days. If you disagree with the result you then can apply to the Information Commissioner for an external review. Applicants are advised of how to apply for an external review when the internal review decision is issued to them.

7.6 Applications for the amendment of personal informationThe FOI Act provides a right for members of the public to apply for the amendment of their personal information held by the department if the information is inaccurate, incomplete, out of date or misleading.

Applications for the amendment personal information have to:

be in writing; provide sufficient details to enable DAFWA to identify the document that

contains the personal information; provide details of matters in relation to which you believe the information is

inaccurate, incomplete, out of date or misleading; provide your reasons for holding that belief; and provide details of the amendments you wish to be made.

Personal information must be about the applicant and proof of identity is necessary before the department can begin processing your application.

7.7 Published information Freedom of Information Act 1992 Freedom of Information Act Regulations 1993 Freedom of Information Implementation Guidelines 1993 Freedom of Information Policy and Practice 1996

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A hardcopy of the FOI Act and Regulations can be purchased from the State Law Publisher or downloaded on the State Law Publisher’s website.

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https://www.slp.wa.gov.au/Index.html