Access to Information under PAIA

PAIA and section 32 of the Constitution

Section 32 of the Constitution gives everyone the right of access to information held by the State, and to information held by another person that is required for the exercise or protection of any right. PAIA is the law that gives effect to this right.

What you can request

Records held by public bodies (government departments, municipalities, organs of state).
Records held by private bodies where the record is required to exercise or protect a right.

How to make a request — step by step

1. Identify the correct institution that holds the record.
2. Find the Information Officer for that body (public bodies must designate one; many publish a PAIA manual).
3. Complete the prescribed request form (Form 2 for public bodies).
4. Describe the records clearly enough to be identified, and the right you seek to exercise or protect (for private bodies).
5. Submit the request to the Information Officer and keep proof of submission.

Responses, appeals and remedies

The body must respond within the statutory period and may grant, partially grant or refuse access.
You may lodge an internal appeal (for public bodies), or complain to the Information Regulator.
You may apply to court for relief where access is unlawfully refused.

How SACR helps

Explains PAIA in plain language and helps identify the right institution.
Assists with completing and framing requests.
Supports access-to-information requests made in the public interest.

Official resources

Information Regulator (South Africa) — PAIA guidance and forms (inforegulator.org.za).
PAIA and its prescribed forms (Form 2).
Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of 2000.

Related SACR submissions & articles

Making a PAIA request to SACR

SACR is a private body for PAIA purposes. Requests for records SACR holds go to its Information Officer, who is also the contact for POPIA questions (see the privacy statement).

Information Officer:
Registration details:

This information is provided for public education and general guidance. It does not constitute legal advice. Legal requirements and public-participation processes may change, and users should consult the relevant official institution or obtain professional advice where necessary.

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