Media release: Digital inclusion the focus for International Access to Information Day 2023
The Office of the Information Commissioner (OIC) is encouraging Queenslanders to join communities and governments around Australia and the world to celebrate International Access to Information Day (IAI Day) on 28 September 2023.
The IAID theme in Queensland this year is ‘Digital inclusion: connecting people to information’. It is a reminder of how digital inclusion can impact an individual’s right to access information, including government-held information.
Digital inclusion is about ensuring that all Australians can access and use digital technologies effectively. Over time, we have seen and continue to see an accelerated digital transformation in many aspects of economic and social life.
Everyone should have the opportunity to benefit from digital technologies: to manage their health, access education and services, participate in cultural activities, organise their finances, follow news and media, and connect with family, friends, and the wider world. This extends to using digital technologies to access government-held information or exercise information access rights.
However, a recent study has found not all Australians enjoy the same benefits and opportunities.
The 2023 Australian Digital Inclusion Index (ADII) report measured digital inclusion across the country comparing things like access, affordability and digital ability.
The report noted that while digital inclusion is improving, there is still a long way to go, and the groups most vulnerable were First Nations communities, older Australians and people on the lowest incomes.
Queensland’s Acting Information Commissioner, Stephanie Winson, said: “We all need to be aware of how factors influencing digital inclusion can impact on an individual’s right to access information, including government‑held information.
“It is so important, because access to information means people can make informed decisions about matter affecting them and their rights to participate in a healthy democratic society,” Ms Winson said.
“IAI Day is a timely reminder for public sector agencies to review how they use digital technologies for delivering services to the community and how people can access government-held information.
“After all, everyone deserves to access services efficiently, stay informed and feel empowered to participate in a democratic society.”
Ms Winson said it was also an opportunity to raise community awareness of every individual’s right to access government-held information.
Visit the OIC’s website for more information about IAI Day.
Media contact: Steve Haigh
Phone: 3234 7373
