2026-02-05
Canberrans will no longer have to wait months to access cabinet documents, following the passage of Greens-led reforms to improve access to historic government records.
The Legislation, brought forward by ACT Greens MLA Andrew Braddock, introduces a statutory 30-day timeframe for responding to requests for executive records more than ten years old. This replaces a system that has seen average waiting times blow out to almost a year.
It also creates an avenue for the community to appeal ACT Government decisions about the release of documents. Going forward, Canberrans will be able to refer decisions to independent external adjudicators in the form of the ACT Ombudsman and the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
Lines attributable to Andrew Braddock, ACT Greens spokesperson for Democracy and Integrity:
"An almost year-long delay makes a mockery of cabinet transparency and the public’s right to timely access to government records.
“Cabinet records are essential to understanding how governments make decisions, and to strengthening transparency and accountability over the long term.
“These documents are already subject to a ten-year release rule, so it is entirely reasonable to expect the government to respond to public requests within 30 working days.
"It is also essential that we have an independent process to review decisions. Prior to this legislation, decisions to withhold or redact cabinet records are reviewed internally, which raises obvious concerns about independence.
“By setting firm timeframes and allowing independent appeals, this reform ensures the community can be confident their access to cabinet records is meaningful in practice, not just in theory.
"Transparency in Government is vital for the community to have trust in their elected representatives and public servants.
"The Greens have long championed a change in culture for the public service, with a focus on proactive disclosure of information.
“We will continue to hold the Government to account and push for higher standards of transparency.
“At a time when public trust is fragile, governments must prove they are working for the people, and that starts with openness and accountability," said Mr Braddock.
STATEMENT ENDS