Freedom of information specialist, Joanne Kummrow, has been appointed as Queensland’s Information Commissioner for the next three years.
Ms Kummrow (pictured) most recently served as Public Access Deputy Commissioner in Victoria and brings a wealth of experience in information privacy and public sector integrity to the position.
“Joanne Kummrow is ideally suited to this position, having previously served in similar roles in Victoria where she held statutory responsibilities for overseeing access to government-held information,” said Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Yvette D’Ath.
“She has extensive experience in government regulation and investigations, public sector integrity, freedom of information, privacy and data security and has demonstrated a strong commitment to working in the public interest throughout her career.
“I congratulate Ms Kummrow on her appointment and thank her for taking on this important role.
“I also want to thank Stephanie Winson for her work in acting as Information Commissioner since September 2023.”
Ms Kummrow was previously Special Counsel, Government and Public Law in the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office advising government agencies and ministers on freedom of information, conducting reviews and leading complex judicial appeal matters.
As Special Counsel, Ms Kummrow built and led the Victorian Government’s legal team that responded to the Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence.
Queensland’s Information Commissioner has functions under both the Right to Information Act 2009 and the Information Privacy Act 2009.
As Commissioner, Ms Kummrow will be responsible for promoting access to government-held information, protecting people’s personal information held by the public sector and supporting public sector agencies to comply with the law.
Her office will also deal with privacy complaints and make decisions on whether an agency’s privacy obligations can be waived or modified in the public interest.
“Access to government-held information and protection of personal information are essential to transparent and accountable government and to the functioning of a modern society,” said Ms D’Ath.
“As an independent office, Queensland’s Information Commissioner plays a key role in ensuring that government information is made publicly available in line with legislative requirements.”
Ms Kummrow commences in the role on 3 April 2024.
