Question - ACT public service

Question

Number
398
Subject
ACT public service
(Official use of external messaging platforms)
Asked by
Cain, Peter
Directed to
Minister for the Public Service
Question asked on
07 May 2025
Answer due on
08 June 2025
Question asked
  1. How many WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, or similar encrypted messaging groups are currently being used by ACT Government directorates or agencies, including senior executives (i.e. executive group managers and higher), for work-related communications, and can the Minister list the platform, Group name and the members of the ACT Senior Public Service in each group.
  2. What policies or guidance, if any, exist regarding the use of encrypted messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram by ACT Public Service employees for official government business, and can the Minister provide copies of any such policies.
  3. Has the ACT Government undertaken any audits, reviews, or assessments in the last five years to determine whether the use of encrypted messaging apps by ACT public servants complies with record-keeping obligations and the Freedom of Information Act 2016;  if so, can the Minister provide the findings.
  4. Has the Head of Service or any directorate provided advice, either formally or informally, to public servants about the use of messaging apps in ways that might avoid the creation of Freedom of Information (FOI) disclosable records; if so, can the Minister provide details of such advice.
  5. How does the ACT Public Service ensure that work-related communications conducted over encrypted or non-government messaging platforms are appropriately recorded and made available for FOI purposes or internal accountability processes.