Labor Under Fire for Plan to Tighten Freedom of Information Rules

The federal government is facing strong criticism over its proposed overhaul of freedom of information (FoI) laws, with opponents warning the changes will restrict public access to government documents.
Attorney General Michelle Rowland has outlined the most significant reforms in more than a decade, which include introducing new charges for FoI requests, tougher rules around cabinet confidentiality, and a ban on anonymous applications. The government also plans to impose stricter limits on access to ministerial advice and deliberative documents.
Under the reforms, individuals seeking their own personal records will remain exempt from fees, but journalists, politicians, and other experts will be required to pay. Similar requests at state and territory level cost around $50. Rowland argued the changes modernize outdated rules dating back to the 1980s and are necessary to prevent the misuse of government resources by frivolous or automated requests.
Cabinet minister Mark Butler defended the plan, citing a surge in anonymous and suspected bot-generated applications. However, the Coalition, Greens, and crossbench MPs have signaled opposition, making it difficult for Labor to secure enough support in parliament. Opposition leader Sussan Ley warned the reforms would fuel a “culture of secrecy,” while shadow attorney general Julian Leeser described the policy as a “transparency tax.”