Western Australians will have open and easy access to previously confidential information held by State and local government in the first half of next year.
Premier Carmen Lawrence said the Freedom of Information Bill had received the Governor's assent and was now an Act of Parliament.
Dr Lawrence said the Act would come into operation progressively. The first part would establish the office and functions of the Information Commissioner.
Following a national advertising campaign, applicants for the new position had been interviewed and an appointment was expected before Christmas.
The Premier was speaking at the opening of a seminar today to familiarise heads of State and local government agencies with the new Freedom of Information Act.
"The seminar, organised by the State Government, is the start of a three-month training program to ensure departments and agencies deal efficiently with FOI requests," the Premier said.
"A public sector FOI manual is being prepared to assist in training and for reference purposes.
"The manual will be released early in the New Year after the incorporation of recent amendments to the Act which were passed by State Parliament.
"The new Freedom of Information Act reflects the Government's push towards improving the accountability of State and local authorities.
"It will ensure the processes of government at all levels is open to public scrutiny."
