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 Report | Comprehensive information on the department's functions and performance. |
| Strategic Plan | Outlines key priorities and strategies for the department's work. |
| Org chart | Department 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 Type | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Files | correspondence, memoranda, minutes etc on the department's operations | |
| Accounting and Financial Reports | on the department's business activities | |
| Client Records | (for example, case notes) | |
| Personnel Files | relating to departmental employees | |
| Internal Policies, Procedures and Guidelines | prescribing how various programs, activities and functions are to be performed | |
| General Administrative Instructions and Industrial Circulars | ||
| General Publications |
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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.