The important thing to remember is that the Act covers records, and the information contained therein. It is NOT the intention of the Act that staff undertake compiled and summarized research.
Much information is handled through the normal release of information, usually by front-line staff.
Information provided through routine channels includes answers to general questions related to departmental and governmental operations. Formal FOI Requests Formal FOI requests made under the Act provide a method of seeking access to information that is not otherwise available through the routine channels. Must be made to the correct jurisdiction. Must be in sufficient detail to assist staff in processing the request. Instead, try to narrow down the scope of your request.