How to Lodge a GIPA Application to Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP)

If someone wants to access government information from Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP), they can do so by making a GIPA application — a formal request under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW).

This guide is designed to help locals who may not be familiar with the process.

What Is a GIPA Application?

A GIPA (Government Information Public Access) application is a formal way to ask a NSW government agency for access to information. It helps promote transparency and allows the public to understand how decisions are made.

MMP is a government-run organisation that manages public cemeteries in metropolitan Sydney. It was formed on 1 July 2023, so any request for information should relate to records from that date onwards.

What Makes a GIPA Application Valid?

To be valid under the GIPA Act, an application must include:

1. A clear statement that it is a GIPA application Include a line such as:

“This is a formal access application made under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.”

2. The applicant’s name and a contact address This can be an email or postal address.

3. A clear description of the information being requested

   • The request must be specific

   • Do not ask for "all documents" — that’s too broad

   • Be clear about what kind of records are wanted (e.g. meeting minutes, contracts, reports)

   • Include a date range if possible

   • Only ask for information from 1 July 2023 onwards (MMP’s start date)

For Example:

“I request under the GIPA Act: copies of contracts signed by MMP with SEC Newgate Australia between July 2023 and August 2025”

4. The $30 application fee This is required to process the application and cannot be discounted. Payment methods are:

• Electronic Bank Transfer

Account Name: Memorial Parks Land Manager

BSB: 032-373 Acc No: 200087

Please note in the reference: GIPA [name of applicant]

• Cheque payable to “Metropolitan Memorial Parks”

Post cheque with your GIPA application to: PO Box 291, Lidcombe NSW 1825

How to Submit a GIPA Application

The application can be submitted:

By email (send formally written GIPA application with remittance of Bank Transfer payment of the $30 application fee to joan.odwyer@mmplm.com.au)

or by post (send to PO Box 291, Lidcombe NSW 1825)

What Happens After You Lodge a GIPA?

• MMP has 20 working days to make a decision.

• They can extend this time by up to 15 working days if:

  • They need to consult with third parties, or

  • The information is held by another agency

• MMP will let the applicant know if extra time is needed.

• MMP may charge a processing fee per hour (usually up to $1,200 for 40 hours work). A request for discount in processing fee can be made (subject to MMP decision and open to review) for Special Benefit to the Public under the GIPA Act.

Note: multiple GIPA applications submitted for processing concurrently by the same individual may be regarded as a single application and be deemed too large to be processed.

Can MMP Refuse Access?

Yes, MMP can refuse to release some or all of the information if there are valid reasons — for example, privacy, Cabinet/legal privilege, or commercial sensitivity.

If someone disagrees with the decision, they have three review options:

1. Internal Review (within 20 working days of the decision)

   • Handled by someone else within MMP

   • Costs $40

2. External Review by the Information Commissioner

   • Free, but decision not legally binding

   • No legal representation needed

   • Must be requested within 40 working days of the decision

3. Administrative Review by NCAT (NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal)

   • Formal legal review (with legally binding decision)

   • Application fees apply

   • Must be requested within 20 working days of an External Review decision by the Information Commissioner (or 40 working days if directly following the original agency decision without External Review)

Tips for Locals Making a GIPA Request

• Keep the request simple and specific

• Avoid asking for "all documents" — it’s better to target the type of information you need

• Include relevant dates and keywords

• Ask for help if unsure what to request — contact MMP or the NSW Information and Privacy Commission

• Always keep a copy of the application and payment receipt

Where to Get More Help

• NSW Information and Privacy Commission (IPC): https://www.ipc.nsw.gov.au

  The IPC offers free advice on how to write a GIPA application and how to challenge a decision.

• MMP Contact Details:

Joan O'Dwyer (MMP, Compliance and Assurance Manager)

joan.odwyer@mmplm.com.au

(Please be respectful of MMP staff and only send GIPA related correspondence to this email address. Feedback and submissions about the Carnarvon Memorial Park proposal should not be sent to this email).