52/2009
18 December 2009
Cabinet Secretary, Senator Joe Ludwig, today welcomed a Rudd Government decision to release documents under Freedom of Information that were withheld by the former Government.
“In September, the Rudd Government fulfilled its election promise to abolish conclusive certificates,” Senator Ludwig said.
“Previously the FOI law allowed Ministers to issue conclusive certificates to prevent documents being released.”
“Conclusive certificates were used as a blanket and unreviewable excuse not to release documents even when an exemption in the law didn’t apply.”
“Today, the Government will reverse the actions of the Howard Government by releasing a series of documents previously withheld.”
The former Liberal Government issued conclusive certificates for documents relating to the First Home Buyers Scheme, bracket creep and tax reform.
The decision of the High Court in the McKinnon case placed the then Treasurer Mr Costello’s decision beyond administrative review.
“The Rudd Government has determined that these documents should be released in the interests of transparency.” Senator Ludwig said.
“This is an important step to promoting a culture of disclosure within government, and in continuing our commitment to reform Australia’s FOI laws.”
“In November, we introduced two more bills into Parliament which will significantly change the way we handle government information and build a stronger foundation for openness in government.”
| Media Contact: | Website: |
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| Sarah Cosson - 0423 823 843 or (02) 6277 7600 | www.cabinetsecretary.gov.au www.smos.gov.au |