International Access to Information Day 2025

International Access to Information Day (IAID) is celebrated around the world on 28 September every year. It’s a day to raise awareness of every individual’s right of access to government-held information; and the public sector’s responsibility to release information if it is in the public interest to do so.

This year’s UNESCO appointed theme for IAID is ‘Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age’.

Whether you’re a member of the community, or if you work in the public sector, IAID is a great opportunity to brush up on your knowledge about information access rights and responsibilities.

When government agencies proactively release information, it helps create a foundation for accountable and transparent government, encourages public participation in civil society and can strengthen democracies by building greater trust between the community and government.

This year’s IAID theme highlights that environmental data, ranging across issues like climate change, pollution, biodiversity, and disaster risks, transcends national borders. It also calls on collaborative, transparent, and innovative global sharing of information.

To celebrate IAID 2025, join in and watch the Solomon Lecture which is happening on 25 September 2025 (either in-person or via livestream). This year’s keynote will be delivered by marine biologist, advocate and author Sheree Marris. Sheree is one of Australia’s foremost environmental communicators, and her keynote will explore the vital role of environmental information in shaping resilient ecosystems and informed societies. Her presentation is titled ‘Reef of Truth: What coral can teach us about power, access and action’.

Together, let’s celebrate IAID 2025 across the Queensland public sector and show our commitment to open and accountable government by better understanding information access rights and responsibilities. You can support the IAID campaign and build on your knowledge by:

• Attending or watching the livestream of the 2025 Solomon Lecture on 25 September in Brisbane/Meanjin (featuring a keynote and expert panel discussion)
• Downloading IAID resources like posters, web banners and social media shareables etc to share with colleagues and your networks
• Checking out this myth-busting guide about the RTI Act
• Viewing this short animation explaining information access rights in Queensland.

Last updated:

15 September 2025