Section 8 of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 requires that Australian government agencies publish in their annual report information about:
In 2008–09 the NBA:
Information on the NBA’s structure and functions is included in this publication, as is performance information.
Ministers and the NBA’s General Manager exercise decision-making powers under the National Blood Authority Act 2003. The National Blood Authority operates as an Australian Government agency in which staff exercise functions and powers under Acts such as the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 and the Public Service Act 1999. Many decisions are given effect through NBA-administered contracts with suppliers.
Under the National Blood Agreement, the primary responsibility for policy in the national blood products sector rests with the Australian Health Ministers Conference, supported by the Jurisdictional Blood Committee.
In the performance of its functions, the NBA has established consultative forums, among them a Professional and Community Forum and a Suppliers Forum. The NBA now regularly issues public consultation papers on elements of its work, including before most major blood procurement activities. The NBA also consults with a range of other expert bodies and interested parties in relation to specific projects.
The NBA maintains records pertaining to the performance of its functions. Records are retained for varying periods, depending on their administrative and historical value, and are disposed of in accordance with the standards and practices approved by the National Archives of Australia under the Archives Act 1983. Table 5.3 shows the categories of documents held by the NBA.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Program documents | The NBA holds documents relating to contracts and tendering processes; dealings with Australian Government and state and territory ministers, committees and other government agencies under the National Blood Agreement; and the performance of its functions under the National Blood Authority Act 2003. |
| Working files | The NBA holds working files including correspondence, analysis and advice by NBA staff, documents received from third parties, and drafts of these and other documents. |
| Internal administration records | The NBA holds personnel records, organisational and staffing records, financial and expenditure records, and internal operating documentation such as office procedures, instructions and indexes. |
| Documents open to public access subject to a fee or other charge | The NBA holds no documents in this category. |
| Documents available for access or purchase subject to a fee or other charge | The NBA holds no documents in this category. |
| Documents customarily available free of charge on request | The annual report and other selected documents relating to the NBA are available on the internet at www.nba.gov.au. |
A request for access to documents under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 must be in writing. Applicants must enclose the $30 application fee and provide an address in Australia to which notices can be sent. In certain circumstances the fee is not required or can be remitted by the NBA.
To enable a prompt response and to help the NBA meet its obligations under the Freedom of Information Act 1982, applicants should provide as much information as possible about the document(s) sought. We also ask that the applicant include a telephone number or an electronic mail address to allow NBA staff handling a request to seek clarification if necessary. Applicants might be liable to pay charges at rates prescribed by the Freedom of Information (Fees and Charges) Regulations.
Inquiries about making a formal request under the Act should be made in writing to the NBA’s Freedom of Information Coordinator:
Freedom of Information Coordinator
National Blood Authority
Locked Bag 8430
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Physical access to documents at the NBA’s premises can be arranged. Inquiries should be directed to the Freedom of Information Coordinator at the address above.