Public access to official information, and open and transparent government more generally, are vital for preventing corruption from taking hold – and for uncovering it when it does.
Corruption thrives where the community and the media do not have access to official information about how government is functioning. The Australian Government should enact access to information laws that comply with international standards and recognised best practice. The Australian Government and civil society should proactively inform people about access to information laws and encourage their use. This would demonstrate a pro-integrity agenda and assist in addressing the falling trust and confidence in all levels of government, officials and elected representatives.