Information Statement

The Freedom of Information Act 1991 (FOI Act) provides members of the public with a legally enforceable right of access to information held by South Australian Government agencies, subject to certain restrictions (or exemptions) that are set out within the legislation.

The following information statement for the Department of Human Services is published in line with Section 9 of the FOI Act.

Statement

Structure and Functions

The functions of the department are based on a broad mandate to assist members of the community who, through circumstance, may be vulnerable, at risk of harm, or isolated, and to connect them with choices and opportunities within South Australia.

The department works closely with people across South Australia to build communities where people are involved and they feel connected, safe and supported — consistent with its vision: Fairness, opportunity and choice for all South Australians.

The department's services are provided from locations around the State.

Further information about the department
Annual ReportComprehensive information on the department's functions and performance.
Strategic PlanOutlines key priorities and strategies for the department's work.
Org chartDepartment business units and senior leaders

Functions Affecting the Public

The work of the department includes a range of services designed to make a tangible and positive difference to the wellbeing of all members of the community.

Our work areas broadly involve these topics:

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
  • Community support and services for older people
  • Community partnerships
  • Disability support
  • Family support
  • Volunteers
  • Women
  • Youth.

Public Participation

Public Participation in Policy Development and the Exercise of the Department's Functions

The department regularly seeks external expertise and community opinion when developing policy, including from statutory and non-statutory advisory committees. To connect with the community, we may consult in the planning, development and implementation of policy.

The department:

  • consults with major interest groups and service providers
  • circulates discussion papers
  • calls for submissions on particular topics, and
  • convenes public meetings on legislative reform and policy initiatives.

The department also uses volunteers in a range of capacities and functions to help provide services to the community.

Types of Documents We Hold

The department holds a wide variety of documents that fall broadly into these categories:

Document TypeDetails
Corporate Filescorrespondence, memoranda, minutes etc on the department's operations
Accounting and Financial Reportson the department's business activities
Client Records(for example, case notes)
Personnel Filesrelating to departmental employees
Internal Policies, Procedures and Guidelinesprescribing how various programs, activities and functions are to be performed
General Administrative Instructions and Industrial Circulars 
General Publications
  • Annual reports
  • Assessments and proposals
  • Books
  • Directories
  • Discussion papers
  • Background papers
  • Surveys
  • Strategies
  • Evaluations
  • Greetings and common phrases
  • Reports
  • Reviews
  • Serial publications
  • Pamphlets
  • Posters

Documents Available Free of Charge

Generally, the department's publications are available without charge. You can access many departmental document online. You can also request documents. Email DHS Enquiries.

Documents available free of charge include the following:

  • pamphlets
  • posters
  • application forms for services
  • strategic plans
  • fact sheets
  • annual reports
  • media releases
  • newsletters
  • community consultation/discussion papers.

Policy Documents

The department maintains a substantial number of internal policy and procedure documents. These include policies and procedures relating to:

  • Carers and volunteers
  • Operational programs and service delivery (for example, housing and disability services)
  • Financial management
  • Risk management
  • Governance
  • Human resources
  • Information communication technology
  • Workforce health, safety and welfare
  • Procurement
  • Records management.

If you wish to access internal policy documents, email DHS Enquiries or contact the Senior Freedom of Information Officer.

Page last updated 27 November 2023