OVIC

Unhappy with an agency’s FOI decision? Seek OVIC assistance by using our new FOI Review Form: bit.ly/3Dp4Tvv

In 2022 we launched our Gender Equality Action Plan outlining our vision and strategies for creating a gender diverse & equitable workforce. From framework to implementation, each part of the GEAP project is now in progress. Read more about our GEAP: bit.ly/3qyxAUg

The Association of Information Access Commissioners of Australia recently issued a statement on how record keeping and transparency uphold the public’s right to access information. Public servants should always offer frank and fearless advice: bit.ly/47t5tWS

Have you received an FOI decision and think more documents should have been located? Complain to OVIC through our secure Complaints Form: bit.ly/3OkpJCS

The Victorian Protective Data Security Standards (VPDSS) were designed to ensure that Vic gov organisations manage #informationsecurity risks. Does your organisation need help implementing the VPDSS? Download our: 🛡️ VPDSS implementation guidance: bit.ly/3BEzPbx

OVIC is developing FOI Guidelines: ✍️ a free & comprehensive guide on ⚖️ how to interpret and apply the FOI Act. We have now published parts of Part VI and Part IV for review. Your feedback is important. Don't forget to have your say by 18 & 21 August: bit.ly/3qVvygC

Out today, the Information Commissioner's latest investigation report finds VicForests performed unlawful surveillance on a member of the public who was conducting legitimate opposition to VF. The surveillance was unnecessary and unreasonably intrusive: bit.ly/3OsPRKC

Each month OVIC hosts an Information Access Series webinar to promote best practice in #FOI. The next IAS sessions will cover: ⚖️ FOI and Family Violence 📅30 August 🕛12pm - 1pm

In our July 2023 newsletter we cover: 📝 Investigation report into Department of Health 🌈 Enhancing inclusivity & diversity at OVIC ℹ️ Attestation reporting deadline ⚖️ Latest decisions and more Read it: bit.ly/3KmEwu6 Sign up: bit.ly/2YHaZnv

The Information Commissioner has released an investigation report into how the Department of Health managed contract staff's access to personal information during the pandemic. Despite understandable challenges, DOH was found to have inadequate safeguards: bit.ly/3OuS3m5

The main reason for data breaches occurring when sending emails is simple human error. Read our guidance for tips on how to reduce these data breaches including: ☑️ disable AutoResolve functions; ☑️ double check recipients; ☑️ set a delay rule and more. bit.ly/2Z2BMKs

We are developing FOI Guidelines, a comprehensive guide to the FOI Act. We have now published Part VIB – Investigations. Your feedback is important to make sure the FOI Guidelines are useful, so don't forget to give us your thoughts by 26 July: bit.ly/3ZQM1zi

Some sensitive personal information, such as information about sexual practices, political opinions or religious beliefs, is subject to a higher level of protection. See Information Privacy Principle 10: Sensitive information in the #IPPGuidelines: bit.ly/IPP_10

Do you want to upskill in conducting Privacy Impact Assessments? We have published a free eLearning module that: 💡 covers the elements of a PIA; and 💡 how to complete a PIA. Visit our online learning portal for more information: bit.ly/2UDeGLy

Has your organisation got the right tools to adequately protect privacy? Our Privacy Officer Toolkit contains resources that privacy officers need day-to-day including: 💡 privacy policies, privacy impact assessments, data breaches and more. Check it out: bit.ly/3j7Y1dj

You can take steps to protect yourself against the rise in #phishing attacks. These include: 🛡️ do not open attachments or links from suspicious sources; and 🛡️ do not provide your information to unverified sources. Visit our website for more tips: bit.ly/2W0RXX3

Is your organisation involved in any projects or activities that involve: 🔎 monitoring or 🔎 analysing data and information? Read OVIC’s new Guiding Principles for Surveillance to make sure your project respects and protects privacy and human rights: bit.ly/3OS1ie7

As we celebrate 40 years of Victoria’s FOI Act, we look to how it will adapt to meet the demands of the future. Parliament recently announced a review of the Act. Let’s enhance accessibility, efficiency and transparency. Join the conversation! #FOI40 #TransparencyMatters

In our July 2023 newsletter we cover: 📁 New review of the FOI Act 🎉 Celebrating 40 years of the FOI Act 📝 FOI Guidelines public consultation opportunities ℹ️ New online forms ⚖️ Latest decisions and more Read it: bit.ly/3NLkc6S Sign up: bit.ly/2YHaZnv

🎉 Today marks 40 years of the Victorian #FOI Act! The Act ensures all Victorians have the right to access their information and to make sure it is recorded correctly. 🎬 Watch here as @SvenBluemmel celebrates the Act’s contribution to a strong democracy: bit.ly/44w1Zk6