FOI costs double while full document releases plummet
Analysis reveals Australia's freedom of information system has become more expensive and secretive, with costs doubling to $97.9 million while full releases halve. Read the full investigation.
Analysis reveals Australia's freedom of information system has become more expensive and secretive, with costs doubling to $97.9 million while full releases halve. Read the full investigation.
A City of Belmont residents' group has labelled annual electors' meetings a 'complete waste of time', questioning council engagement after low attendance and over 20 motions were presented. Read more on the local democracy debate.
Median ATAR scores for Canberra's 2025 Year 12 cohort will remain hidden, continuing a trend of limited transparency. A delayed advisory committee review means data won't be public until at least 2026.
Senior Australian public servants and military chiefs accepted thousands in gifts, including flight upgrades, sports tickets, and luxury items. Explore the full disclosure of perks declared on the official register.
Perth's CBD parking levy raises over $60 million annually, but a lack of transparency on its spending is fuelling public frustration. Clarity on fund allocation is now essential.
The Albanese government's controversial freedom of information reforms are headed for a Senate defeat after the Coalition and Greens joined forces to oppose the bill. Read why critics call it a 'secrecy bill'.
The Attorney-General's Department could not produce evidence supporting claims of AI bots overwhelming FOI systems, used to justify a controversial 'truth tax'. Read the full investigation.
Discover how digital trading platforms have democratised commodity markets, making them accessible to farmers and small producers across Australia. Learn about the transformation from exclusive old boys' clubs to transparent online systems.
Cairns councillors demand transparency as Mayor Terry James makes multiple trips to Canberra costing ratepayers over $40,000. Questions arise about value for money.
Troy Dametto takes office as Townsville's new mayor, pledging transparency, trust and fiscal responsibility. Learn about his vision for the city's future.
Former Liberal MP Pat Farmer is lobbying for a Chinese university with deep ties to China's defence establishment, raising national security concerns. Discover the details and implications.
From friendly greetings to climate policy and light rail extensions, Newcastle residents share diverse opinions on local issues. Read the community conversation.
Queensland's child protection inquiry denies government request for confidential staff testimony. Commission insists on transparency in Cairns hearing. Read the latest developments.
A Belmont residents' group accuses the City of Belmont of censorship after a question was edited out of a public council meeting recording and minutes. Discover the controversy.
Ex-mayor Jenny Hill's push for a comprehensive audit of Townsville Council operations encounters significant legal and procedural obstacles that could derail the investigation.
The Albanese government faces mounting pressure over public service appointments as Coalition senators demand answers about potential 'jobs for mates' practices in Canberra.
The Albanese government faces mounting criticism for failing to deliver on its transparency promises. As trust in institutions erodes, experts question whether the government is truly walking its talk on accountability.
Michelle Grattan exposes how Labor's reliance on big donors is creating an uneven playing field in Australian democracy, raising serious questions about political integrity.
Independent Senator David Pocock leads a parliamentary revolt against the Labor government, demanding greater transparency and accountability in ministerial decision-making.
FNQ Regional Council defends controversial move to shift from annual to biennial environmental reporting, claiming efficiency gains while critics raise transparency concerns.