What does meaningful civil society consultation require for the FOI Bill?

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Meaningful consultation for the FOI Bill necessitates transparency, inclusivity, and substantive stakeholder engagement.

Civil society groups have welcomed the government's move to refer the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill 2026 to a parliamentary special select committee (PSSC). This referral is seen as a positive step, but the effectiveness of the review process hinges on its transparency, inclusivity, and the meaningful participation of civil society organisations and other stakeholders. The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) has emphasised that such consultations must be conducted in a substantive manner to ensure the Bill adequately addresses public interest concerns.
Transparency in the review process

For the consultation process to be considered transparent, it implies that information regarding the review stages and discussions should be accessible. This would allow civil society organisations and the public to follow the proceedings and understand the basis of decisions being made. Generally, transparent consultations involve making meeting minutes and relevant documents publicly available, fostering an environment where all parties can engage with a clear understanding of the information at hand.
Inclusivity in stakeholder engagement

Inclusivity in the context of the FOI Bill's review means ensuring that a diverse range of voices are heard. This extends beyond just formal invitations to consultation sessions; it requires active efforts to reach out to various civil society organisations and stakeholders, ensuring their representation is broad and representative of different interests. Accessibility to these consultations, both in terms of logistics and the clarity of information presented, is also a key component of an inclusive approach.
Substantive involvement of civil society

The requirement for substantive involvement underscores the need for civil society organisations and stakeholders to have a genuine impact on the Bill's content. This means their feedback and proposals should be seriously considered and demonstrably influence the final draft of the legislation. Mechanisms for providing feedback, such as structured dialogues and opportunities to respond to proposed amendments, are crucial for ensuring that consultations are not merely procedural but lead to tangible improvements in the Bill.

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What does meaningful civil society consultation require for the FOI Bill?

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