Before you make a Freedom of Information (FOI) request
The Freedom of Information pathway is one way to access information however, in the first instance we encourage you to consider administrative release as an alternate, simpler means to obtain information.
In most instances administrative release is a less complex, more efficient and potentially faster way of accessing personal and corporate (non-personal) information and has a number of benefits. These include:
- you do not need to lodge a formal written request
- requests can be answered in different ways and may be as simple as a phone call or email
- the process can be simpler, less expensive and faster option than FOI
- a statement of reasons outlining legislative provisions is not required, which means we can get the information to you faster.
- there are no charges for personal information.
However, you do not have a right of review when your information is provided to you by administrative release. FOI requests may be a more suitable pathway if your request is extensive and complex, or involves consultation with third parties.
To access information through administrative pathways:
Check your MyService account
For claims submitted via MyService and other personal details such as, accepted conditions and service summary.
Ask a DVA delegate
If you’re looking for information about a current claim, you can get in touch with the assigned delegate. Speaking to a delegate is a fast way to get the information you need.
Contact our Information Access Unit
We want to make the process of accessing information easier for you. The IAU can help with both personal and corporate information requests
Check our website for corporate information published under the Information Publication scheme
We are required to publish a number of documents and reports under the FOI act.
- Access our Information Publication Scheme here
Check our disclosure log
We publish a range of non-personal documents in response to past FOI requests.
- Access the latest disclosure log here.
Request to amend information
If you are making a freedom of information request to amend information, check with our Information Access Unit first to see if it can be processed through administrative release.
Learn more about the administrative release and the different pathways
- in our guidelines or
- contact IAU to discuss your request.