The Freedom of Information Independent  Review Panel has released a discussion paper reviewing Queensland’s Freedom of Information (FOI) laws.

The discussion paper is intended to raise the major issues that will be considered by the Panel in recommending ways to improve and modernise Queensland’s Freedom of Information Act 1992.

According to the Panel, "The discussion paper challenges core legislative presumptions and current paradigms in the administration of FOI to shake out what matters most and what resonates best in the problemsolving puzzle."

Public submissions close on 7 March 2008.

The Panel will jointly host a FOI Public Seminar with the Australian Law Reform Commission on 6 March 2008.

The panel is scheduled to submit its final report and recommendations for cabinet consideration by the end of May.

The government intends to introduce proposed changes to the state’s FOI laws before the end of the year.