When will you refuse a request or withhold information?

When will you refuse a request or withhold information?

We will make the information you request available unless there is a reason why we are unable to do so (for example, the information isn’t held or can’t be found or doesn’t exist) or there is ‘good reason’ for withholding it.

Reasons for refusing a request or withholding information are specified in the legislation (section 27 to 29 of the Privacy Act). They apply when release would harm a protected interest such as the maintenance of the law, another person’s privacy, or commercial interests.

When we refuse your request or withhold information, we will tell you which part of the Privacy Act applies.