Right to Information and Privacy

Right to Information (RTI)

From 1 July 2009, the Right to Information Act 2009 (Qld) replaced the Freedom of Information Act 1992.
This change followed an independent review by Dr David Solomon and introduced a more open and transparent approach to government-held information.

The Queensland Government promotes a “push model” of information release - encouraging agencies to proactively publish information rather than waiting for formal requests. Use of the RTI Act should be a last resort when information is not otherwise accessible.

Under the Premier’s directive, all agencies must maintain a Publication Scheme outlining the types of information available and how the public can access it.

How to Access Information

You can access Council information through Council’s Website: www.banana.qld.gov.au

• Publication Scheme
• Disclosure Log
• Administrative Access 

Contacting Council for further information, in person at:

• 62 Valentine Plains Road, Biloela QLD 4715
• 18 Yaldwyn Street, Taroom QLD 4420
• 34 Gillespie Street, Moura QLD 4718

By phone: (07) 4992 9500, or
By emailing enquiries@banana.qld.gov.au

Application Forms and Fees

Forms, guidelines, and fee information are available from the Office of the Information Commissioner Queensland: www.rti.qld.gov.au

Information Privacy

Banana Shire Council is committed to protecting the personal information of individuals while maintaining an open and accountable governance environment.

What is Personal Information?

Under the Information Privacy Act 2009, personal information is:

information or an opinion about an identified individual or an individual who is reasonably identifiable from the information or opinion -

a) whether the information or opinion is true or not; and
b) whether the information or opinion is recorded in a material form or not.

Examples include:

• Name, address, phone number, email
• Photographs or video footage
• Fingerprints or biometric data
• Bank account or employment details
• Correspondence with Council

Queensland Privacy Principles (QPPs)

Council complies with the Queensland Privacy Principles (QPPs) in Schedule 3 of the Information Privacy Act 2009. These principles govern how personal information is collected, stored, used, and disclosed.

Collection and Use of Personal Information

Council will only collect personal information:

When it is lawful and necessary for delivering services or fulfilling legislative functions

• For the specific purpose for which it is collected
• With transparency about how it will be used

Council will not disclose personal information without consent unless required or authorised to do so by law.

Personal Information Collection Notice (Privacy Statement)

Access and Amendment

Individuals have the right to:

• Access their personal information held by Council
• Request corrections to ensure accuracy

All applications to access or amend personal information are now made under the Right to Information Act 2009.

Protection of Documents

Council will protect personal information it has collected and will restrict access to personal information in data and documents to officers who are required to use this information to carry out a lawful function of Council.