Records & archives management

The Information Act sets up a framework for the making and keeping of records by public sector organisations (Part 9).

Each public sector organisation must—

• keep full and accurate records of its activities and operations
• implement practices and procedures to safeguard the custody and ensure proper preservation of its records
• implement practices and procedures for managing its records that are necessary for compliance with relevant records management standards
• make arrangements for the Archives Service to monitor management of its records.

The Northern Territory Archives Service—

• develops draft records management standards for management of records. (These deal with issues like creation, maintenance, security and disposal of records. The Information Commissioner and relevant organisations are consulted as part of the preparation of each standard. The standards are approved by the Minister.)
• provides advice to organisations on compliance with the standards
• monitors management of government records.

There are a number of offences relating to mishandling of government records, including inappropriate alteration, damaging or disposing of records.

Part 9 of the Act also deals with managing the archives of government organisations, including determination of open access periods.

If you want to find out more about the records and archives management provisions or view the records management standards, you can go to the Northern Territory Archives Service website.

Last Updated on
16 February, 2004