This year's theme, “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age,” focuses on the vital importance of timely, comprehensive, and cross-border access to environmental information in an increasingly digital world. Environmental data, encompassing climate change, pollution, biodiversity, and disaster risks, transcends national borders, necessitating collaborative, transparent, and innovative global sharing of information. This theme also highlights how digital technologies and open data platforms can enhance public access, foster transparency, and empower citizens and stakeholders to participate meaningfully in environmental governance and sustainable development.

Our Council supports a culture of openness, transparency and accountability and we are committed to improving access to information consistent with the Right to Information Act 2009 and the Information Privacy Act 2009.

IAI Day is a timely opportunity to raise awareness about information access rights and how greater openness builds trust between government and the community.

If you are interested in finding out more, you can watch a free talk by marine biologist, advocate, and author Sheree Marris. Sheree has a deep passion for the ocean and uses underwater photography to help bridge scientific research and public awareness. Sheree is one of Australia’s foremost environmental communicators, appearing in the media, contributing to publications, and engaging with audiences through public speaking at events. The event will be in-person and live-streamed.

Find out more and watch the Solomon Lecture here.

For more information visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/right-information or www.oic.qld.gov.au