Freedom of Information Requests

Freedom of Information at Forensicare

Freedom of Information requests received by Forensicare are processed in line with the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic) and managed by the Health Information Services department.

All requests for access to documents under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 1982:

• Must be made in writing, including sufficient information about the requested documents.
• Include patient authority if request is made by a third party.
• Include photographic ID if request is made by an individual.
• Complete the Freedom of Information Application Form if made by an individual –
  • Fillable PDF Version
  • Printable Word Version.
• Be accompanied by an application fee of $32.70 (if a waiver is not applicable – see Fees and Charges for more information).

Part 2 Statement

In accordance with Part II of the Freedom of Information Act 1982, Forensicare is required to publish certain statements in respect of its functions, processes, and the categories of documents it holds.

General information about Forensicare and its functions and processes can be found on this website and in Forensicare’s annual reports. A range of publications produced by Forensicare, including annual reports, are available here. Publications produced by Forensicare and the Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science are available here. Individuals can request access to documents in the possession of Forensicare through the Freedom of Information process outlined above. The general categories of documents held by Forensicare are outlined below:

Forensicare has a wide range of documents that are used by staff in the daily operations of the organisation, and which assist with the administration of laws or schemes affecting the public. These include the following types of documents:

• Policies and guidelines
• Employee records
• Financial records
• Medical records
• Commercial documents
• Reports

Fees and Charges

Fees and Charges will apply to applications in certain circumstances. This will be assessed per application by the responsible FOI Officer.

Application Fee

An application fee of $32.70 is applicable to all applications unless proof of hardship can be provided by the applicant. This can be in the form of a concession card (Pension / Healthcare / Veteran Affairs).

If you feel this fee should be waived and you cannot provide this, you may still request a waiver, though this will be decided by the FOI Officer.

Access Charges

Access Charges are charges imposed for the processing of the request. If applicable, these must be paid prior to be provided with the documents. You will be notified if access changes apply to your request.

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