Strengthening transparency through Ministerial diary disclosure

Tasmanians are invited to have their say on how ministerial diaries are disclosed, with the release of a discussion paper today. 

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the Ministerial Diaries and Routine Disclosures discussion paper forms part of the Tasmanian Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening transparency, accountability and public trust in government decision-making.

“Transparency and accountability are fundamental to good government, and we are committed to ensuring that our decision-making processes are open to public scrutiny,” Premier Rockliff said.

“This Liberal Government is delivering for Tasmanians, and through initiatives like the Independent RTI Review and the RTI Uplift Project, we’re building a stronger, more transparent public sector that earns and maintains the trust of Tasmanians.”

The discussion paper outlines a series of proposed changes to enhance the framework for diary disclosure, including:

• mandatory publication of ministerial meetings with external stakeholders;
• the establishment of minimum standards;
• improved timeliness and accessibility;
• a transparent exemption process; and
• the extension of disclosure requirements to opposition and shadow ministers.

Premier Rockliff said the proposed reforms build on significant work already undertaken to strengthen Tasmania’s Right to Information system.

“This includes the commissioning of the Independent Review of the Right to Information Act 2009, the implementation of the RTI Uplift Project, and our broader efforts to embed a culture of openness across the public sector,” Premier Rockliff said.

“Ministerial diaries provide a valuable insight into how elected officials engage with stakeholders and make decisions that affect the Tasmanian community.

“Enhancing the transparency of these records is an important step in ensuring that government remains open, accountable, and responsive to the public.

“We are working together to move our state forward, and I encourage all Tasmanians to have their say and help shape an even more transparent and accountable government.”

The Discussion Paper and details on how to make a submission are available at: www.dpac.tas.gov.au

Submissions can be made via email to ministerialdiaries@dpac.tas.gov.au or by post to:
Executive Government Services
Level 7, 15 Murray Street
Hobart TAS 7000