**Subject: Formal Request for Information and Transparency Regarding the Port Arthur Massacre Investigation**
Dear Tasmania Police,
I am writing to formally request detailed information and greater transparency concerning the Tasmanian Police's investigation into the Port Arthur Massacre. This request follows my communications to the Tasmanian Government Information Strategy Unit (GISU) and the Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office advocating for the public release of all relevant documents.
As the primary law enforcement agency responsible for investigating this tragic event, the Tasmanian Police possess a wealth of crucial information and documentation. Ensuring public trust and fostering a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal moment in Australian history necessitates a greater degree of openness regarding the investigative process and its findings.
The initial investigation, while conducted under immense pressure, is now decades in the past. The continued withholding of detailed investigative information contributes to public speculation and hinders the ability of researchers, journalists, and the public to fully understand the complexities of the case.
Therefore, I respectfully request the Tasmanian Police to consider the following:
1. **Provide a detailed overview of the key stages and processes of the original investigation.** This could include information on the investigative team, the scope of the inquiry, and the methodologies employed.
2. **Outline what categories of investigative materials are currently retained by the Tasmanian Police.** This could include, but not be limited to, witness statements, forensic reports, ballistics analysis, interview transcripts, crime scene photographs and videos, and internal investigation reports.
3. **Clarify the specific legal and policy reasons why these investigative materials are not currently available for public scrutiny.**
4. **Detail the process by which a member of the public or a researcher can formally request access to specific investigative materials, including any prerequisites, limitations, or fees involved.**
5. **Indicate whether the Tasmanian Police have ever conducted any internal reviews or audits of the original investigation, and if so, whether the findings of these reviews can be made public.**
6. **Explain the protocols and procedures in place for the long-term preservation and security of these sensitive investigative records.**
I understand the need to protect sensitive information and respect the privacy of victims and their families. However, I believe that a greater degree of transparency regarding the historical investigation itself, with appropriate redactions to protect genuine privacy concerns, would serve the public interest. Such transparency can help to address lingering questions and foster a more informed understanding of the events that transpired.
Ultimately, increased openness from the Tasmanian Police regarding the Port Arthur Massacre investigation can contribute significantly to public trust and a more complete historical record.
I look forward to receiving a detailed response outlining how the Tasmanian Police will address this request for information and transparency.
Good morning,
As previously requested, please complete the attached application form and submit.
Regards
Right to Information Services
6173 1813 | [Tasmania Police request email]
Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management
-----Original Message-----
From: DocumentSeeker <[FOI #13138 email]>
Sent: 08 May 2025 21:08
To: Right to Information <[Tasmania Police request email]>
Subject: Right to Information request - **Subject: Formal Request for Information and Transparency Regarding the Port Arthur Massacre Investigation**
[You don't often get email from [FOI #13138 email]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentific... ]
Dear Tasmania Police,
I am writing to formally request detailed information and greater transparency concerning the Tasmanian Police's investigation into the Port Arthur Massacre. This request follows my communications to the Tasmanian Government Information Strategy Unit (GISU) and the Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office advocating for the public release of all relevant documents.
As the primary law enforcement agency responsible for investigating this tragic event, the Tasmanian Police possess a wealth of crucial information and documentation. Ensuring public trust and fostering a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal moment in Australian history necessitates a greater degree of openness regarding the investigative process and its findings.
The initial investigation, while conducted under immense pressure, is now decades in the past. The continued withholding of detailed investigative information contributes to public speculation and hinders the ability of researchers, journalists, and the public to fully understand the complexities of the case.
Therefore, I respectfully request the Tasmanian Police to consider the following:
1. **Provide a detailed overview of the key stages and processes of the original investigation.** This could include information on the investigative team, the scope of the inquiry, and the methodologies employed.
2. **Outline what categories of investigative materials are currently retained by the Tasmanian Police.** This could include, but not be limited to, witness statements, forensic reports, ballistics analysis, interview transcripts, crime scene photographs and videos, and internal investigation reports.
3. **Clarify the specific legal and policy reasons why these investigative materials are not currently available for public scrutiny.** 4. **Detail the process by which a member of the public or a researcher can formally request access to specific investigative materials, including any prerequisites, limitations, or fees involved.** 5. **Indicate whether the Tasmanian Police have ever conducted any internal reviews or audits of the original investigation, and if so, whether the findings of these reviews can be made public.** 6. **Explain the protocols and procedures in place for the long-term preservation and security of these sensitive investigative records.**
I understand the need to protect sensitive information and respect the privacy of victims and their families. However, I believe that a greater degree of transparency regarding the historical investigation itself, with appropriate redactions to protect genuine privacy concerns, would serve the public interest. Such transparency can help to address lingering questions and foster a more informed understanding of the events that transpired.
Ultimately, increased openness from the Tasmanian Police regarding the Port Arthur Massacre investigation can contribute significantly to public trust and a more complete historical record.
I look forward to receiving a detailed response outlining how the Tasmanian Police will address this request for information and transparency.
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