Queensland’s State Public Servants have been invited to have a say in proposed changes to the Public Records Act 2002 (PR Act) which is being reviewed to modernise and strengthen Government recordkeeping.
To be reviewed by an independent panel led by retired Supreme Court Judge John Byrne, the Act has not been changed since it was brought to life in 2002.
The review has until August of this year to deliver its report of recommended changes which are expected to reflect contemporary recordkeeping practices, technology and community expectations.
“The Public Records Act 2002 (the Act) is being reviewed to ensure the legislative framework supports the contemporary management and preservation of digital records and emerging technology impacts on public authorities,” the Government said.
The review will also contribute to the examination of culture and accountability in the public sector through consideration of recordkeeping practices that support good governance and decision making by Government.
According to the Terms of Reference, during the past two decades public authorities have increasingly used digital technologies and platforms to undertake the business of government.
“This has driven a dramatic increase in the volume and types of information, data and records created by government,” it says.
“The Act now requires review to support legislative effectiveness within this digital environment and to enable efficient recordkeeping for digital channels.
“The significant growth in use of digital platforms has not reduced the Queensland Government’s reliance on paper.
It says there has been a consistent growth of both digital and physical records with implications on the effective delivery of government services and fiscal impacts due to the significant costs incurred in storing information.
“A comprehensive review of the Act is required to meet public expectations and to ensure the legislative framework enables contemporary information and recordkeeping practices that support good governance and decision making by government.”
The Terms of Reference for the Review can be accessed at this PS News link and a range of informative documents and survey for opinions at this link .
