Victorian Health Department Ordered to Release Official Advice Behind COVID Restrictions

A court has ruled that Victoria’s Health Department must process Freedom of Information (FOI) requests related to public health orders implemented during the pandemic. The documents (briefs) underpinned decisions related to policies like curfews on Victorian citizens, and closing children’s playgrounds during the state’s lockdown periods. Liberal Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) David Davis took on the government in the case, Davis v Department of Health. Mr. David had put in four FOI requests for information, but the Victorian Information Commissioner refused all of these. Ultimately, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal considered whether this decision to deny the FOI requests was justified....