Freedom of information: NT Health

Applying to access information

The Northern Territory Information Act 2002 provides the community with access to government information including personal information . The right to access information is limited only in circumstances where the disclosure of particular information would be contrary to the public interest. The Information Act 2002 does not replace other procedures for accessing government information or does not limit in any way access to government information that is publicly available.

Read the NT Health Freedom of Information Policy.

How to apply to access information

If you would like access to information held by NT Health, you can make a request directly to the relevant area or unit that holds the information you require. Alternatively, you may complete an Application to Access Information:

Application to access information

This application form can be submitted to the Information and Privacy Unit, using the contact details listed below

Correcting your personal information

If, after accessing your personal information, you believe it is is inaccurate or out of date, you can request that the information be corrected.

Under the Information Act, the department can make the change you requested, change the information in another way, or refuse to change the information.

If your requested change is not agreed to, you will be provided with written reasons for refusal, and be given an opportunity to place with your personal records a statement of your opinion that the information is inaccurate, incomplete or out of date.

How to apply for a correction

To apply to correct your information submit an application form:

• Application to correct information

In your application explain why you think the information is not accurate, incorrect or is out of date, and submit to the Information and Privacy Unit, contact details listed below.

Privacy

NT Health applies the following policy to privacy:

• when your personal information is collected by the department, it will only collect what is necessary to provide you with the best and most appropriate services
• the department will advise you the reasons for collecting your personal information, how it will be used, if it will be disclosed to anyone and that you have the right to access it
• the department will only use your personal information for the purpose it was collected for, and will not use it for another purpose unless with your consent, or if it's required by law, or the use is related to the reason it was collected for
• the department will keep your information secure, and take reasonable steps to ensure it is accurate, complete and up to date
• if there is no law requiring the department to keep your personal information, it will be destroyed or de-identifed once it's not longer needed
• on request, the department will give you access to your personal information.

Read the NT Health Privacy Policy.

Complaints

If you are concerned that your personal information has not been protected, or that the department has breached your privacy, you should make a complaint using the online NT Health Privacy complaint form.

Alternatively, you can email or post a written complaint to the Information and Privacy Unit. A written complaint must include your name and contact details, and why you believe that your privacy has been interfered with. Provide as much detail as possible including:

• date and time
• location of incidents
• who did what
• names and contact details of any witnesses.

If you are not satisfied with any response you receive from the department in relation to an interference with your privacy, you can then lodge a complaint with the Northern Territory Information Commissioner.

Application and processing fees

If you are seeking access only to your personal information, there is no application fee. If you are seeking access to government information or a mix of personal and non-personal information, a $30 application fee is payable. Processing fees may apply to both personal and government applications. The fees may be charged for searching for information, for considering and making a decision on your application , and for providing access to or copies of the information. There are no fees for applying to correct your information or for privacy complaints.

How to apply for a reduction or waiver of fees

The fees and charges for requests processed under the Information Act 2002 are set out in the Information Regulations 2003. The Department may waive or reduce a fee upon request and after careful consideration of the circumstances of the application. To apply to reduce or waive an application or process fee please complete the application form:

Application for Waiver or Reduction of Fees

Applications should be submitted to the Information and Privacy Unit and will only be considered if sufficient evidence is provided to support the application.

Contact

NT Health

Information and Privacy Unit
87 Mitchell Street
Darwin NT 0800
PO Box 40596
Casuarina NT 0811

Phone: (08) 8999 2880
Fax: (08) 8999 2455