Privacy Policy

The Freedom of Information Act 1982 allows the public a right of access to documents held by the MMA. The purpose of the Act is to extend as far as possible the right of the community to access information held by government departments, local councils, Ministers and other bodies subject to the Act. An applicant has a right to apply for access to documents held by the MMA. This comprises documents both created by the MMA or supplied to the MMA by an external organisation or individual, and may also include maps, photographs, computer printouts, and videotapes.

The Act allows the MMA to refuse access, either fully or partially, to certain documents or information. Examples of documents that may not be accessed include: Cabinet documents; some internal working documents; law enforcement documents; documents covered by legal professional privilege, such as legal advice; personal information about other people; and information provided to MMA in confidence. The Freedom of Information (FoI) processing time for requests received is 30 days, in some cases, this time may be extended.

If an applicant is not satisfied by a decision made by the MMA, under section 49A of the Act, they have the right to seek a review by the office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) within 28 days of receiving a decision letter.

FoI requests can be lodged online at www.ovic.vic.gov.au. An application fee applies, which can be found on the OVIC website. Access charges may also be payable if the document pool is large, and the search for material, time-consuming. Access to documents can also be obtained through a written request to the MMA’s Freedom of Information team, as detailed in s15 of the Freedom of Information Act 1982. When making an FoI request, applicants should ensure requests are in writing, and clearly identify what types of material/ documents are being sought.

Requests for documents in the possession of the MMA should be addressed to:

MMA Privacy and FOI Manager Melbourne Market Authority Level 1, 55 Produce Drive Epping VIC 3076 FOI@melbournemarket.com.au