Great new bold move on the FOI front

In suggesting yesterday that Kevin Rudd would need some input on culture change and FOI reform from some source uncluttered by past 'closed government' experience, I couldn't have thought of anyone better than Senator John Faulkner, the new Special Minister of State and Cabinet Secretary.

At the Prime Minister-Elect's media conference today he announced that Senator Faulkner would have responsibility, among others, for the integrity functions within government, particularly freedom of information reforms.

Senator Faulkner has spent years on Senate Estimates committees listening to explanations about why even the Senate couldn't be given details about the performance of government functions. He knows the public service well, and the tricks of the trade.

This appointment will give some real meaning to the Government's commitment to change. Congratulations.