The Queensland Government has taken another step towards achieving its vision of an open, accountable and participatory government.

On 28 September 2009 the Queensland Government Chief Information Officer and Director-General of the Department of Public Works, Mal Grierson approved the Queensland Government Information Management Strategic Framework.

The development of the framework was recommended by the 2008 Independent Review Panel established by Premier Anna Bligh to examine Queensland’s freedom of information laws. This recommendation was supported by the Queensland Government which acknowledged that mature information management practices underpin its vision.

The framework was developed collaboratively by the Queensland Government Chief Information Office (QGCIO), Queensland State Archives, the Queensland Information Commissioner, the SI&ICT Council Information Management Sub-committee and other key stakeholders.

QGCIO Program Director, Jeff Tendero said all documents that formed part of the Information Management Strategic Framework were consulted with agencies through the formal QGEA consultation process.

‘We thank agencies for their invaluable feedback,’ he said.

The key documents that form the framework include:

• information principles – establishes the Queensland Government’s values and approach to information, its use and its management
• information policy and position – specifies the overarching requirements and targets for Queensland Government departments
• information management policy framework – identifies and defines the various areas which contribute to effective information management, and serves as an organising framework for ensuring appropriate policy coverage.
• information management action plan (published in the Information Management Strategic Framework document) – contains actions which seek to achieve the goals of this strategic framework.

‘The new framework has been very well received both within the government, and externally, with interest coming from industry, local government and academia.

‘It is only the start of a journey in further improving information management practice within the Queensland Government, but it does establish for the first time a practical means to plan and deliver improved information management and a more open government and a more informed community,’ Jeff said.

Capitalising on a range of existing efforts, the framework delivers a comprehensive policy framework outlining all elements of information and information management.

It provides invaluable advice on ensuring the right information is available to the right person, in the right format and medium, at the right time.

For more information contact Jeff Tendero on 3225 8609 or jeff.tendero@publicworks.qld.gov.au.