Making an application

To request information from SafeWork SA you must complete the application for access to documents and either lodge it:

By post

Freedom of Information Officer
SafeWork SA
GPO Box 465
ADELAIDE SA 5001

Online

Use the online Freedom of Information application form (select Attorney-General's Department under Name of agency).

A fee is payable when making a freedom of information (FOI) application.

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the Freedom of Information Officer on (08) 8207 1555 or Toll Free: 1800 177 076 (within SA) or via email.

Time limit and exemptions

The FOI Act requires applications to be processed within 30 days from when it is received. While the FOI legislation aims to provide access rather than prevent it, it does provide for the exemption of certain documents from release. Exemptions that typically apply to SafeWork SA investigations would exclude documents:

  • affecting law enforcement and public safety
  • containing personal information
  • created for the dominant purpose of obtaining or giving legal advice or use in litigation
  • containing confidential information.

The most common examples of documents exempt from release are where SafeWork SA is considering prosecution activity in relation to the incident and the release of such information could potentially prejudice such activity. Under these circumstances, the documents will not be released until the completion of the legal proceedings. If a document is deemed to be exempt from release, access may be denied to all or part of that document. If access is refused, you will be informed of the reasons and advised of your appeal rights.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA) and other safety related legislation limit the amount and type of information about an investigation that can be released. In addition, if SafeWork SA or another regulatory body is considering legal action, access to many documents will be restricted until all proceedings or appeals are completed.