‘Truth Tax’: Labor’s Planned FOI Fee Draws Ire From All Sides

The Liberals and Greens have both criticised what has been called a ‘dark day for democracy’.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks during the opening of the 48th Federal Parliament in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia on July 22, 2025. AAP Image/Lukas Coch

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has joined a chorus of Australian politicians condemning Labor’s so-called “truth tax.”

The Albanese government announced it would start charging for Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to access Commonwealth documents, a move opponents have dubbed a “truth tax” amid concerns it will veil government transparency.