WA government restricts public information access, journalists report
Government agencies and courts in Perth are refusing to release information that journalists once had.
Government and public groups in Perth are limiting access to information journalists once had, according to local reporters. Crime data on police dashboards is now kept from media requests.
A university merger story was delayed when officials ignored journalist inquiries. Court suppression orders have been approved in cases without good legal reason.
Prisoner release details are no longer public. Court transcripts cost $227 for about 20 pages.
Government communications staff give answers that don't really respond to what journalists ask. Reporters describe a major shift in transparency.
This is different from the state's earlier reputation for being open.
- $227 for about 20 pages
- Court transcript cost
- Perth, Western Australia
- Location
Why it mattersA free press and access to government information are needed for accountability. Without media access, no one sees what institutions decide.
AustraliaWestern Australians' understanding of government decisions on crime, education, and public spending depends on media access; restrictions limit vital oversight.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
