Without access to this data it is impossible to verify the accuracy and integrity of the NSW State election. Copies of the preference data files are published (belatedly) by the Australian Electoral Commission and other state jurisdictions.
Electronic records are subject to modification and possible corruption. Publication of the data files limits opportunity for the data files being altered and changed.
The fact that the NSW electoral commission has refused to make this information available raises the obvious question why?
ABUSE OF PROCESS.
The detailed data file is a public document and as such is subject to an FOI application. The requirement for an FOPI application and the payment of $30.00 fee is an abuse of process. This information should be freely available and on the public record. It is not an onerous task. The information can and should be accessible visa a download from the NSWEC web site.
The NSWEC information policy states
In addition to the “open access information” the NSWEC also proactively releases other information.
...
Make an informal request
If the information you are after has not already been published, but is information which raises no particular concerns in terms of possible public interest reasons why it should be kept confidential, then the NSWEC may be able to release it to you on request without the formalities of having to make a formal application.
If you think this applies to the information you are after you can contact us to make an informal request.
Generally, we try to release information we hold without the need for you to make a formal access application, unless there are good reasons to require one.
We had made an informal request and also contacted Ian Bright, Manager of Information Technology, and was told in no uncertain words that this information is not available.
We are left with no other option but to make an application and pay the fee to obtain information that should be readily and freely available.
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