Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) - Structured Rehabilitation
Dear National Health and Medical Research Council,
I am seeking information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people with ME/CFS and a copy of the background information/correspondence that led to the NHMRC seeking a people with experience in providing "structured rehabilitation" to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
Yours faithfully,
Zac Elwood
To explain the need for this information:
Both the UK and the USA carried out comprehensive research and literature reviews before discarding and warning against structed rehabilitation programs for people with ME/CFS.
The Workwell Foundation et al objectively measure functional and cognitive capacity supports a physiological based approach to managing ME/CFS and WARN against a structured program.
Patient surveys worldwide have consistently found that structured rehabilitation programs cause harm to people with ME/CFS.
Sydney Fatigue Clinic's research found that the majority of people attending their structed rehabilitation program did not benefit.
Yours faithfully,
Zac Elwood
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request to the National Health and Medical Research
Council (NHMRC) under the [1]Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) (FOI
Act) seeking:
Information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people with ME/CFS and
a copy of the background information/correspondence that led to the NHMRC
seeking a people with experience in providing "structured rehabilitation"
to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
To explain the need for this information:
Both the UK and the USA carried out comprehensive research and literature
reviews before discarding and warning against structed rehabilitation
programs for people with ME/CFS.
The Workwell Foundation et al objectively measure functional and cognitive
capacity supports a physiological based approach to managing ME/CFS and
WARN against a structured program.
Patient surveys worldwide have consistently found that structured
rehabilitation programs cause harm to people with ME/CFS.
Sydney Fatigue Clinic's research found that the majority of people
attending their structed rehabilitation program did not benefit.
Please see the below information about the processing of your FOI request,
including a request from NHMRC to extend the processing period. Please
also note that NHMRC may contact you about possibly clarifying the scope
of your request (separately to this email).
Timeframe for receiving your decision – seeking an extension
The statutory timeframe for processing a request is 30 days, starting from
the day after the day on which your application was received. Therefore,
the due date for a decision on your request is 6 January 2025.
NHMRC is seeking your agreement to extend the processing period of your
FOI request. As the NHMRC office will be closed from 25 December 2024–1
January 2025 (inclusive), this will impact on the processing period. We
ask that you please agree to an extension of 30 days under section 15AA of
the FOI Act to 5 February 2025.
Please email [2][NHMRC request email] by close of business Friday 13 December
2024 to advise whether or not you agree to this extension.
Separate from any agreed extension, please note that the overall timeframe
could be extended further if charges are levied and/or if we need to
consult with third parties (see below).
Charges
Agencies may decide that an applicant is liable to pay a charge in respect
of a request for access to documents. These charges are set by the
[3]Freedom of Information (Charges) Regulations 2019 and are for search
and retrieval of documents, decision making and provision of access (for
example, copying and postage).
If NHMRC decides to charge you in respect of this FOI request, we will
send you a preliminary assessment of the charges as soon as possible
following retrieval of any documents that may be relevant to your
request.
Consultation with third parties
NHMRC may be required under the FOI Act to consult other parties (third
parties) where information relating to third parties arises in documents
sought by your request. The FOI Act prescribes a further 30-day processing
time for NHMRC to undertake this consultation. You will be advised as soon
as possible of any requirement to consult with a third party.
Disclosure log
Please note that section 11C of the FOI Act requires agencies to disclose
documents released under the FOI Act in a disclosure log, which is made
publicly available. There are exceptions to this requirement, such as
where release of the documents or parts of them would involve the
unreasonable disclosure of your or another person’s personal or business
information. You may choose to express a view on this issue and to
identify personal or business information that in your view would be
unreasonable to publish. However, you should be aware that section 11C of
the FOI Act embodies a pro-disclosure policy which agencies are required
to follow, subject to any exceptions provided for under the FOI Act.
If you have any queries throughout the process, please contact the FOI
Unit at: [4][NHMRC request email]
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[5][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[6]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Saturday, 7 December 2024 11:45 AM
To: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: Freedom of Information request - Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
(ME/CFS) - Structured Rehabilitation
[You don't often get email from
[7][FOI #12498 email]. Learn why this is
important at [8]https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentific... ]
Dear National Health and Medical Research Council,
I am seeking information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people
with ME/CFS and a copy of the background information/correspondence that
led to the NHMRC seeking a people with experience in providing "structured
rehabilitation" to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
Yours faithfully,
Zac Elwood
To explain the need for this information:
Both the UK and the USA carried out comprehensive research and literature
reviews before discarding and warning against structed rehabilitation
programs for people with ME/CFS.
The Workwell Foundation et al objectively measure functional and cognitive
capacity supports a physiological based approach to managing ME/CFS and
WARN against a structured program.
Patient surveys worldwide have consistently found that structured
rehabilitation programs cause harm to people with ME/CFS.
Sydney Fatigue Clinic's research found that the majority of people
attending their structed rehabilitation program did not benefit.
Yours faithfully,
Zac Elwood
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[9][FOI #12498 email]
Is [10][NHMRC request email] the wrong address for Freedom of Information
requests to National Health and Medical Research Council? If so, please
contact us using this form:
[11]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
This request has been made by an individual using Right to Know. This
message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet.
More information on how Right to Know works can be found at:
[12]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
Please note that in some cases publication of requests and responses will
be delayed.
If you find this service useful as an FOI officer, please ask your web
manager to link to us from your organisation's FOI page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This email (including any attached files) is intended only for the
addressee, it may contain confidential information. If you are not the
addressee, you are notified that any transmission, distribution, printing
or duplication of this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received
this email in error please promptly inform the sender and delete all
copies of this e-mail and all attachments.
Unless explicitly attributed, the opinions expressed do not necessarily
represent the official position of the National Health and Medical
Research Council.
Please consider the environment before printing this email, thank you.
References
Visible links
1. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/C2...
2. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
3. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/F2...
4. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
5. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
6. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
7. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
8. https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentific...
9. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
10. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
11. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/change_re...
12. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/help/offi...
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
This email is just a reminder that NHMRC is seeking your agreement by
close of business today, 13 December 2024, to extend the processing
period of your FOI request by 30 days.
Please note that as the NHMRC office will be closed from 25 December
2024–1 January 2025 (inclusive), this will impact on the processing
period.
If you agree to the extension, the due date for a decision on your request
will be 5 February 2025.
Please contact the FOI Unit as soon as possible by email at
[1][NHMRC request email], or by phone on (02) 6217 9000 if you have any queries
or would like to discuss.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Wednesday, 11 December 2024 2:32 PM
To: [FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Acknowledgement and seeking an
extension to the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request to the National Health and Medical Research
Council (NHMRC) under the [4]Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) (FOI
Act) seeking:
Information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people with ME/CFS and
a copy of the background information/correspondence that led to the NHMRC
seeking a people with experience in providing "structured rehabilitation"
to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
To explain the need for this information:
Both the UK and the USA carried out comprehensive research and literature
reviews before discarding and warning against structed rehabilitation
programs for people with ME/CFS.
The Workwell Foundation et al objectively measure functional and cognitive
capacity supports a physiological based approach to managing ME/CFS and
WARN against a structured program.
Patient surveys worldwide have consistently found that structured
rehabilitation programs cause harm to people with ME/CFS.
Sydney Fatigue Clinic's research found that the majority of people
attending their structed rehabilitation program did not benefit.
Please see the below information about the processing of your FOI request,
including a request from NHMRC to extend the processing period. Please
also note that NHMRC may contact you about possibly clarifying the scope
of your request (separately to this email).
Timeframe for receiving your decision – seeking an extension
The statutory timeframe for processing a request is 30 days, starting from
the day after the day on which your application was received. Therefore,
the due date for a decision on your request is 6 January 2025.
NHMRC is seeking your agreement to extend the processing period of your
FOI request. As the NHMRC office will be closed from 25 December 2024–1
January 2025 (inclusive), this will impact on the processing period. We
ask that you please agree to an extension of 30 days under section 15AA of
the FOI Act to 5 February 2025.
Please email [5][NHMRC request email] by close of business Friday 13 December
2024 to advise whether or not you agree to this extension.
Separate from any agreed extension, please note that the overall timeframe
could be extended further if charges are levied and/or if we need to
consult with third parties (see below).
Charges
Agencies may decide that an applicant is liable to pay a charge in respect
of a request for access to documents. These charges are set by the
[6]Freedom of Information (Charges) Regulations 2019 and are for search
and retrieval of documents, decision making and provision of access (for
example, copying and postage).
If NHMRC decides to charge you in respect of this FOI request, we will
send you a preliminary assessment of the charges as soon as possible
following retrieval of any documents that may be relevant to your
request.
Consultation with third parties
NHMRC may be required under the FOI Act to consult other parties (third
parties) where information relating to third parties arises in documents
sought by your request. The FOI Act prescribes a further 30-day processing
time for NHMRC to undertake this consultation. You will be advised as soon
as possible of any requirement to consult with a third party.
Disclosure log
Please note that section 11C of the FOI Act requires agencies to disclose
documents released under the FOI Act in a disclosure log, which is made
publicly available. There are exceptions to this requirement, such as
where release of the documents or parts of them would involve the
unreasonable disclosure of your or another person’s personal or business
information. You may choose to express a view on this issue and to
identify personal or business information that in your view would be
unreasonable to publish. However, you should be aware that section 11C of
the FOI Act embodies a pro-disclosure policy which agencies are required
to follow, subject to any exceptions provided for under the FOI Act.
If you have any queries throughout the process, please contact the FOI
Unit at: [7][NHMRC request email]
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[8][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[9]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[10][FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Saturday, 7 December 2024 11:45 AM
To: NHMRC FOI <[11][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: Freedom of Information request - Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
(ME/CFS) - Structured Rehabilitation
[You don't often get email from
[12][FOI #12498 email]. Learn why this is
important at [13]https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentific... ]
Dear National Health and Medical Research Council,
I am seeking information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people
with ME/CFS and a copy of the background information/correspondence that
led to the NHMRC seeking a people with experience in providing "structured
rehabilitation" to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
Yours faithfully,
Zac Elwood
To explain the need for this information:
Both the UK and the USA carried out comprehensive research and literature
reviews before discarding and warning against structed rehabilitation
programs for people with ME/CFS.
The Workwell Foundation et al objectively measure functional and cognitive
capacity supports a physiological based approach to managing ME/CFS and
WARN against a structured program.
Patient surveys worldwide have consistently found that structured
rehabilitation programs cause harm to people with ME/CFS.
Sydney Fatigue Clinic's research found that the majority of people
attending their structed rehabilitation program did not benefit.
Yours faithfully,
Zac Elwood
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[14][FOI #12498 email]
Is [15][NHMRC request email] the wrong address for Freedom of Information
requests to National Health and Medical Research Council? If so, please
contact us using this form:
[16]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
This request has been made by an individual using Right to Know. This
message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet.
More information on how Right to Know works can be found at:
[17]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
Please note that in some cases publication of requests and responses will
be delayed.
If you find this service useful as an FOI officer, please ask your web
manager to link to us from your organisation's FOI page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This email (including any attached files) is intended only for the
addressee, it may contain confidential information. If you are not the
addressee, you are notified that any transmission, distribution, printing
or duplication of this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received
this email in error please promptly inform the sender and delete all
copies of this e-mail and all attachments.
Unless explicitly attributed, the opinions expressed do not necessarily
represent the official position of the National Health and Medical
Research Council.
Please consider the environment before printing this email, thank you.
References
Visible links
1. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
2. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
3. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
4. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/C2...
5. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
6. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/F2...
7. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
8. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
9. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
10. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
11. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
12. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
13. https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentific...
14. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
15. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
16. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/change_re...
17. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/help/offi...
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
NHMRC notes that you have not responded to our below emails (of 11 and 13
December 2024), about whether you agree to extend the processing period
of your FOI request by 30 days.
We ask that you please respond as soon as possible, as the NHMRC office
will be closed from 25 December 2024–1 January 2025 (inclusive) and this
will impact on the processing period.
If you agree to the extension, the due date for a decision on your request
will be 5 February 2025.
Please contact the FOI Unit by email at [1][NHMRC request email], or by phone
on (02) 6217 9000, if you have any queries or would like to discuss.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Friday, 13 December 2024 4:54 PM
To: [FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to the
timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
This email is just a reminder that NHMRC is seeking your agreement by
close of business today, 13 December 2024, to extend the processing
period of your FOI request by 30 days.
Please note that as the NHMRC office will be closed from 25 December
2024–1 January 2025 (inclusive), this will impact on the processing
period.
If you agree to the extension, the due date for a decision on your request
will be 5 February 2025.
Please contact the FOI Unit as soon as possible by email at
[4][NHMRC request email], or by phone on (02) 6217 9000 if you have any queries
or would like to discuss.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[5][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[6]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[7][NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Wednesday, 11 December 2024 2:32 PM
To: [8][FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[9][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Acknowledgement and seeking an
extension to the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request to the National Health and Medical Research
Council (NHMRC) under the [10]Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) (FOI
Act) seeking:
Information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people with ME/CFS and
a copy of the background information/correspondence that led to the NHMRC
seeking a people with experience in providing "structured rehabilitation"
to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
To explain the need for this information:
Both the UK and the USA carried out comprehensive research and literature
reviews before discarding and warning against structed rehabilitation
programs for people with ME/CFS.
The Workwell Foundation et al objectively measure functional and cognitive
capacity supports a physiological based approach to managing ME/CFS and
WARN against a structured program.
Patient surveys worldwide have consistently found that structured
rehabilitation programs cause harm to people with ME/CFS.
Sydney Fatigue Clinic's research found that the majority of people
attending their structed rehabilitation program did not benefit.
Please see the below information about the processing of your FOI request,
including a request from NHMRC to extend the processing period. Please
also note that NHMRC may contact you about possibly clarifying the scope
of your request (separately to this email).
Timeframe for receiving your decision – seeking an extension
The statutory timeframe for processing a request is 30 days, starting from
the day after the day on which your application was received. Therefore,
the due date for a decision on your request is 6 January 2025.
NHMRC is seeking your agreement to extend the processing period of your
FOI request. As the NHMRC office will be closed from 25 December 2024–1
January 2025 (inclusive), this will impact on the processing period. We
ask that you please agree to an extension of 30 days under section 15AA of
the FOI Act to 5 February 2025.
Please email [11][NHMRC request email] by close of business Friday 13 December
2024 to advise whether or not you agree to this extension.
Separate from any agreed extension, please note that the overall timeframe
could be extended further if charges are levied and/or if we need to
consult with third parties (see below).
Charges
Agencies may decide that an applicant is liable to pay a charge in respect
of a request for access to documents. These charges are set by the
[12]Freedom of Information (Charges) Regulations 2019 and are for search
and retrieval of documents, decision making and provision of access (for
example, copying and postage).
If NHMRC decides to charge you in respect of this FOI request, we will
send you a preliminary assessment of the charges as soon as possible
following retrieval of any documents that may be relevant to your
request.
Consultation with third parties
NHMRC may be required under the FOI Act to consult other parties (third
parties) where information relating to third parties arises in documents
sought by your request. The FOI Act prescribes a further 30-day processing
time for NHMRC to undertake this consultation. You will be advised as soon
as possible of any requirement to consult with a third party.
Disclosure log
Please note that section 11C of the FOI Act requires agencies to disclose
documents released under the FOI Act in a disclosure log, which is made
publicly available. There are exceptions to this requirement, such as
where release of the documents or parts of them would involve the
unreasonable disclosure of your or another person’s personal or business
information. You may choose to express a view on this issue and to
identify personal or business information that in your view would be
unreasonable to publish. However, you should be aware that section 11C of
the FOI Act embodies a pro-disclosure policy which agencies are required
to follow, subject to any exceptions provided for under the FOI Act.
If you have any queries throughout the process, please contact the FOI
Unit at: [13][NHMRC request email]
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[14][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[15]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[16][FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Saturday, 7 December 2024 11:45 AM
To: NHMRC FOI <[17][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: Freedom of Information request - Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
(ME/CFS) - Structured Rehabilitation
[You don't often get email from
[18][FOI #12498 email]. Learn why this is
important at [19]https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentific... ]
Dear National Health and Medical Research Council,
I am seeking information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people
with ME/CFS and a copy of the background information/correspondence that
led to the NHMRC seeking a people with experience in providing "structured
rehabilitation" to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
Yours faithfully,
Zac Elwood
To explain the need for this information:
Both the UK and the USA carried out comprehensive research and literature
reviews before discarding and warning against structed rehabilitation
programs for people with ME/CFS.
The Workwell Foundation et al objectively measure functional and cognitive
capacity supports a physiological based approach to managing ME/CFS and
WARN against a structured program.
Patient surveys worldwide have consistently found that structured
rehabilitation programs cause harm to people with ME/CFS.
Sydney Fatigue Clinic's research found that the majority of people
attending their structed rehabilitation program did not benefit.
Yours faithfully,
Zac Elwood
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[20][FOI #12498 email]
Is [21][NHMRC request email] the wrong address for Freedom of Information
requests to National Health and Medical Research Council? If so, please
contact us using this form:
[22]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
This request has been made by an individual using Right to Know. This
message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet.
More information on how Right to Know works can be found at:
[23]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
Please note that in some cases publication of requests and responses will
be delayed.
If you find this service useful as an FOI officer, please ask your web
manager to link to us from your organisation's FOI page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This email (including any attached files) is intended only for the
addressee, it may contain confidential information. If you are not the
addressee, you are notified that any transmission, distribution, printing
or duplication of this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received
this email in error please promptly inform the sender and delete all
copies of this e-mail and all attachments.
Unless explicitly attributed, the opinions expressed do not necessarily
represent the official position of the National Health and Medical
Research Council.
Please consider the environment before printing this email, thank you.
References
Visible links
1. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
2. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
3. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
4. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
5. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
6. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
7. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
8. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
9. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
10. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/C2...
11. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
12. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/F2...
13. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
14. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
15. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
16. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
17. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
18. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
19. https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentific...
20. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
21. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
22. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/change_re...
23. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/help/offi...
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
Thank you for your below email and for agreeing to the extension of 30
days (under s15AA of the FOI Act).
The due date for your request is now 5 February 2025.
If you have any queries, please contact the FOI Unit at:
[1][NHMRC request email] or on: (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Marion
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Monday, 16 December 2024 11:56 PM
To: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear NHMRC FOI,
I agree to the extension of time.
Yours sincerely,
Zac Elwood
-----Original Message-----
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
NHMRC notes that you have not responded to our below emails (of 11 and 13
December 2024), about whether you agree to extend the processing period
of your FOI request by 30 days.
We ask that you please respond as soon as possible, as the NHMRC office
will be closed from 25 December 2024–1 January 2025 (inclusive) and this
will impact on the processing period.
If you agree to the extension, the due date for a decision on your request
will be 5 February 2025.
Please contact the FOI Unit by email at [1][NHMRC request email], or by
phone
on (02) 6217 9000, if you have any queries or would like to discuss.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Friday, 13 December 2024 4:54 PM
To: [FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to the
timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
This email is just a reminder that NHMRC is seeking your agreement by
close of business today, 13 December 2024, to extend the processing
period of your FOI request by 30 days.
Please note that as the NHMRC office will be closed from 25 December
2024–1 January 2025 (inclusive), this will impact on the processing
period.
If you agree to the extension, the due date for a decision on your request
will be 5 February 2025.
Please contact the FOI Unit as soon as possible by email at
[4][NHMRC request email], or by phone on (02) 6217 9000 if you have any
queries
or would like to discuss.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[5][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[6]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[7][NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Wednesday, 11 December 2024 2:32 PM
To: [8][FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[9][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Acknowledgement and seeking an
extension to the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request to the National Health and Medical Research
Council (NHMRC) under the [10]Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) (FOI
Act) seeking:
Information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people with ME/CFS and
a copy of the background information/correspondence that led to the NHMRC
seeking a people with experience in providing "structured rehabilitation"
to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
To explain the need for this information:
Both the UK and the USA carried out comprehensive research and literature
reviews before discarding and warning against structed rehabilitation
programs for people with ME/CFS.
The Workwell Foundation et al objectively measure functional and cognitive
capacity supports a physiological based approach to managing ME/CFS and
WARN against a structured program.
Patient surveys worldwide have consistently found that structured
rehabilitation programs cause harm to people with ME/CFS.
Sydney Fatigue Clinic's research found that the majority of people
attending their structed rehabilitation program did not benefit.
Please see the below information about the processing of your FOI request,
including a request from NHMRC to extend the processing period. Please
also note that NHMRC may contact you about possibly clarifying the scope
of your request (separately to this email).
Timeframe for receiving your decision – seeking an extension
The statutory timeframe for processing a request is 30 days, starting from
the day after the day on which your application was received. Therefore,
the due date for a decision on your request is 6 January 2025.
NHMRC is seeking your agreement to extend the processing period of your
FOI request. As the NHMRC office will be closed from 25 December 2024–1
January 2025 (inclusive), this will impact on the processing period. We
ask that you please agree to an extension of 30 days under section 15AA of
the FOI Act to 5 February 2025.
Please email [11][NHMRC request email] by close of business Friday 13
December
2024 to advise whether or not you agree to this extension.
Separate from any agreed extension, please note that the overall timeframe
could be extended further if charges are levied and/or if we need to
consult with third parties (see below).
Charges
Agencies may decide that an applicant is liable to pay a charge in respect
of a request for access to documents. These charges are set by the
[12]Freedom of Information (Charges) Regulations 2019 and are for search
and retrieval of documents, decision making and provision of access (for
example, copying and postage).
If NHMRC decides to charge you in respect of this FOI request, we will
send you a preliminary assessment of the charges as soon as possible
following retrieval of any documents that may be relevant to your
request.
Consultation with third parties
NHMRC may be required under the FOI Act to consult other parties (third
parties) where information relating to third parties arises in documents
sought by your request. The FOI Act prescribes a further 30-day processing
time for NHMRC to undertake this consultation. You will be advised as soon
as possible of any requirement to consult with a third party.
Disclosure log
Please note that section 11C of the FOI Act requires agencies to disclose
documents released under the FOI Act in a disclosure log, which is made
publicly available. There are exceptions to this requirement, such as
where release of the documents or parts of them would involve the
unreasonable disclosure of your or another person’s personal or business
information. You may choose to express a view on this issue and to
identify personal or business information that in your view would be
unreasonable to publish. However, you should be aware that section 11C of
the FOI Act embodies a pro-disclosure policy which agencies are required
to follow, subject to any exceptions provided for under the FOI Act.
If you have any queries throughout the process, please contact the FOI
Unit at: [13][NHMRC request email]
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[14][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[15]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[4][FOI #12498 email]
This request has been made by an individual using Right to Know. This
message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet.
More information on how Right to Know works can be found at:
[5]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
Please note that in some cases publication of requests and responses will
be delayed.
If you find this service useful as an FOI officer, please ask your web
manager to link to us from your organisation's FOI page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
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this email in error please promptly inform the sender and delete all
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Unless explicitly attributed, the opinions expressed do not necessarily
represent the official position of the National Health and Medical
Research Council.
Please consider the environment before printing this email, thank you.
References
Visible links
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2. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
3. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
4. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
5. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/help/offi...
Dear Marion Berry,
Can you please advise me if there has been any progress towards providing the requested informaion.
Yours sincerely,
Zac Elwood
Dear Zac
Thank you for your email.
Our apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
We are working on your request, and we will be in touch as soon as
possible.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[1][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[2]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[3][FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Thursday, 16 January 2025 11:06 PM
To: Marion Berry <[4][email address]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Marion Berry,
Can you please advise me if there has been any progress towards providing
the requested informaion.
Yours sincerely,
Zac Elwood
-----Original Message-----
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
Thank you for your below email and for agreeing to the extension of 30
days (under s15AA of the FOI Act).
The due date for your request is now 5 February 2025.
If you have any queries, please contact the FOI Unit at:
[1][NHMRC request email] or on: (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Marion
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[5][FOI #12498 email]
This request has been made by an individual using Right to Know. This
message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet.
More information on how Right to Know works can be found at:
[6]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
Please note that in some cases publication of requests and responses will
be delayed.
If you find this service useful as an FOI officer, please ask your web
manager to link to us from your organisation's FOI page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This email (including any attached files) is intended only for the
addressee, it may contain confidential information. If you are not the
addressee, you are notified that any transmission, distribution, printing
or duplication of this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received
this email in error please promptly inform the sender and delete all
copies of this e-mail and all attachments.
Unless explicitly attributed, the opinions expressed do not necessarily
represent the official position of the National Health and Medical
Research Council.
Please consider the environment before printing this email, thank you.
References
Visible links
1. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
2. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
3. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
4. mailto:[email address]
5. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
6. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/help/offi...
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I am writing to provide an update on the processing of your FOI request.
NHMRC has conducted a search of its electronic files and email mailboxes
to find any documents that may be relevant to your request. The key search
terms used were [‘Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome’,
‘ME/CFS’, ‘ME-CFS’, ‘MECFS’, ‘long COVID’ and ‘structured
rehabilitation’]. I note that these are general search terms that have
been used due to the nature of your request (e.g., information regarding
'structed rehabilitation’…, with no date range).
This search has found a large number of documents (total of 779) that may
potentially be relevant to your request. We are trying to refine this
search by reviewing the documents and excluding those which do not fall
within the scope of your request.
Due to the large number of documents identified, NHMRC has determined that
it will be difficult to process your request within the remaining
statutory timeframe (i.e., by 5 February 2025). As you have agreed to a
30-day extension under s15AA of the FOI Act, NHMRC will be seeking an
additional extension of 30 days from the [1]Office of the Australian
Information Commissioner (OAIC) under [2]s15AB of the FOI Act. This extra
30 days will allow NHMRC time to continue reviewing the documents found in
the search, determine the next steps (which may include discussing the
scope of your request with you) and processing accordingly.
If OAIC agrees to the additional extension, the due date for your request
will be 7 March 2025. We will let you know whether this extension is
granted.
Please note that if during the processing of an FOI request NHMRC
determines that a ‘practical refusal reason’ exists (e.g. the resource
impact of processing the request would be substantial and unreasonable),
NHMRC may refuse access to the FOI request. However, NHMRC must formally
consult with the applicant before refusing the request (under section 24AB
of the FOI Act). If NHMRC decided to undertake such a formal ‘request
consultation’ process, it would be separate to this email.
If you have any queries or would like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to
contact us via email at [3][NHMRC request email] or by phone on (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[4][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[5]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Monday, 20 January 2025 6:28 PM
To: [FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Thank you for your email.
Our apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
We are working on your request, and we will be in touch as soon as
possible.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[6][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[7]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[8][FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Thursday, 16 January 2025 11:06 PM
To: Marion Berry <[9][email address]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Marion Berry,
Can you please advise me if there has been any progress towards providing
the requested informaion.
Yours sincerely,
Zac Elwood
-----Original Message-----
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
Thank you for your below email and for agreeing to the extension of 30
days (under s15AA of the FOI Act).
The due date for your request is now 5 February 2025.
If you have any queries, please contact the FOI Unit at:
[1][NHMRC request email] or on: (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Marion
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[10][FOI #12498 email]
This request has been made by an individual using Right to Know. This
message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet.
More information on how Right to Know works can be found at:
[11]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
Please note that in some cases publication of requests and responses will
be delayed.
If you find this service useful as an FOI officer, please ask your web
manager to link to us from your organisation's FOI page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This email (including any attached files) is intended only for the
addressee, it may contain confidential information. If you are not the
addressee, you are notified that any transmission, distribution, printing
or duplication of this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received
this email in error please promptly inform the sender and delete all
copies of this e-mail and all attachments.
Unless explicitly attributed, the opinions expressed do not necessarily
represent the official position of the National Health and Medical
Research Council.
Please consider the environment before printing this email, thank you.
References
Visible links
1. https://www.oaic.gov.au/
2. https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A025...
3. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
4. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
5. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
6. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
7. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
8. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
9. mailto:[email address]
10. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
11. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/help/offi...
Our reference: RQ25/00524
Agency reference: FOI 2024/25-006
Agency name National Health and Medical Research Council
By Email: [NHMRC request email]
Name Zac Elwood
By Email:
[FOI #12498 email]
Extension of time under s 15AB
Dear Parties,
Please find attached an extension of time decision relating to the above
referenced FOI request.
Regards,
[1][IMG] Andriana DeIeso
Review Adviser
Office of the Australian Information Commissioner
GPO Box 5288 Sydney NSW 2001
E [2][email address]
I am available Tuesday and Wednesday.
Please note: The OAIC has revised its IC review procedures from 1 July
2024. For more information about these revised procedures, including new
resources to assist applicants and respondents, see our webpage:
[3]Information Commissioner reviews | OAIC
The OAIC acknowledges Traditional Custodians of Country across
Australia and their continuing connection to land, waters and
communities. We pay our respect to First Nations people,
cultures and Elders past and present.
[4]Subscribe to Information Matters
Notice:
The information contained in this email message and any attached files may
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professional privilege. If you are not the intended recipient any use,
disclosure or copying of this email is unauthorised. If you received this
email in error, please notify the sender by contacting the department's
switchboard on 1300 488 064 during business hours (8:30am - 5pm Canberra
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References
Visible links
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2. mailto:[email address]
3. https://www.oaic.gov.au/freedom-of-infor...
4. https://www.oaic.gov.au/engage-with-us/n...
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request made under the [1]Freedom of Information Act 1982
(Cth) (FOI Act) to the National Health and Medical Research Council
(NHMRC) on 7 December 2024, seeking:
Information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people with ME/CFS and
a copy of the background information/correspondence that led to the NHMRC
seeking a people with experience in providing "structured rehabilitation"
to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
As noted in NHMRC’s email of 30 January 2025, NHMRC sought an additional
extension of 30 days from the Office of the Australian Information
Commissioner (OAIC) under s15AB of the FOI Act. This was due to the large
number of potentially relevant documents (779) that were found in NHMRC’s
search, and that it would therefore be difficult for NHMRC to process your
request within the remaining statutory timeframe (i.e., by 5 February
2025).
NHMRC also advised in its email of 30 January 2025, that it was working to
refine the search by reviewing the 779 documents and excluding those which
do not fall within the scope of your request.
You would have received an email from OAIC today (5 February 2025)
advising that it has declined our request to extend the processing period
and that a decision on your request is due today (5 February 2025).
Although we are still in the process of reviewing the 779 documents, we
have identified at least one document where the consultation provisions of
the FOI Act (sections 27 and 27A) apply – that is, where documents contain
information concerning the business, commercial or financial affairs of an
organisation, or a person’s business or professional affairs or personal
information. NHMRC is required to consult with the person or organisation
concerned before deciding on the release of the documents.
Sections 27 and 27A of the FOI Act apply when it appears to the decision
maker, that the person or organisation concerned might wish to contend
that the requested documents are exempt because their release would, or
could reasonably be expected to, unreasonably adversely affect their
business or financial affairs (section 27), or their personal privacy
(section 27A).
More information about exemptions under the FOI Act is available on OAIC’s
website: [2]www.oaic.gov.au/freedom-of-information
While any comments received from an individual or organisation that is
consulted will be taken into account, the final decision about whether to
grant you access to the documents you have requested rests with the
decision maker authorised under subsection 23(1) of the FOI Act.
In accordance with subsection 15(6) of the FOI Act, the period for
processing your request has been extended by an extra 30 days to allow
NHMRC time to consult with third parties. This places the due date at 7
March 2025.
If you have any questions or wish to discuss this notice, please contact
the NHMRC FOI Unit at [3][NHMRC request email] or on (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[4][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[5]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Thursday, 30 January 2025 6:44 PM
To: [FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Update on status and seeking an OAIC
extension [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I am writing to provide an update on the processing of your FOI request.
NHMRC has conducted a search of its electronic files and email mailboxes
to find any documents that may be relevant to your request. The key search
terms used were [‘Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome’,
‘ME/CFS’, ‘ME-CFS’, ‘MECFS’, ‘long COVID’ and ‘structured
rehabilitation’]. I note that these are general search terms that have
been used due to the nature of your request (e.g., information regarding
'structed rehabilitation’…, with no date range).
This search has found a large number of documents (total of 779) that may
potentially be relevant to your request. We are trying to refine this
search by reviewing the documents and excluding those which do not fall
within the scope of your request.
Due to the large number of documents identified, NHMRC has determined that
it will be difficult to process your request within the remaining
statutory timeframe (i.e., by 5 February 2025). As you have agreed to a
30-day extension under s15AA of the FOI Act, NHMRC will be seeking an
additional extension of 30 days from the [6]Office of the Australian
Information Commissioner (OAIC) under [7]s15AB of the FOI Act. This extra
30 days will allow NHMRC time to continue reviewing the documents found in
the search, determine the next steps (which may include discussing the
scope of your request with you) and processing accordingly.
If OAIC agrees to the additional extension, the due date for your request
will be 7 March 2025. We will let you know whether this extension is
granted.
Please note that if during the processing of an FOI request NHMRC
determines that a ‘practical refusal reason’ exists (e.g. the resource
impact of processing the request would be substantial and unreasonable),
NHMRC may refuse access to the FOI request. However, NHMRC must formally
consult with the applicant before refusing the request (under section 24AB
of the FOI Act). If NHMRC decided to undertake such a formal ‘request
consultation’ process, it would be separate to this email.
If you have any queries or would like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to
contact us via email at [8][NHMRC request email] or by phone on (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[9][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[10]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[11][NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Monday, 20 January 2025 6:28 PM
To: [12][FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[13][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Thank you for your email.
Our apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
We are working on your request, and we will be in touch as soon as
possible.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[14][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[15]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[16][FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Thursday, 16 January 2025 11:06 PM
To: Marion Berry <[17][email address]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Marion Berry,
Can you please advise me if there has been any progress towards providing
the requested informaion.
Yours sincerely,
Zac Elwood
-----Original Message-----
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
Thank you for your below email and for agreeing to the extension of 30
days (under s15AA of the FOI Act).
The due date for your request is now 5 February 2025.
If you have any queries, please contact the FOI Unit at:
[1][NHMRC request email] or on: (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Marion
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[18][FOI #12498 email]
This request has been made by an individual using Right to Know. This
message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet.
More information on how Right to Know works can be found at:
[19]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
Please note that in some cases publication of requests and responses will
be delayed.
If you find this service useful as an FOI officer, please ask your web
manager to link to us from your organisation's FOI page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This email (including any attached files) is intended only for the
addressee, it may contain confidential information. If you are not the
addressee, you are notified that any transmission, distribution, printing
or duplication of this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received
this email in error please promptly inform the sender and delete all
copies of this e-mail and all attachments.
Unless explicitly attributed, the opinions expressed do not necessarily
represent the official position of the National Health and Medical
Research Council.
Please consider the environment before printing this email, thank you.
References
Visible links
1. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/C2...
2. http://www.oaic.gov.au/freedom-of-inform...
3. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
4. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
5. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
6. https://www.oaic.gov.au/
7. https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A025...
8. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
9. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
10. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
11. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
12. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
13. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
14. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
15. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
16. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
17. mailto:[email address]
18. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
19. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/help/offi...
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request made under the [1]Freedom of Information Act 1982
(Cth) (FOI Act) to the National Health and Medical Research Council
(NHMRC) on 7 December 2024, seeking:
Information regarding 'structed [structured] rehabilitation" for people
with ME/CFS and a copy of the background information/correspondence that
led to the NHMRC seeking a people with experience in providing "structured
rehabilitation" to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
I am writing to clarify the timeframe/date range of your request,
particularly for information regarding “structured rehabilitation" for
people with ME/CFS.
NHMRC has interpreted your request to be seeking more recent documents,
given NHMRC’s activities in relation to the development of new guidelines
for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), which is
the focus of your request. I’ve provided some information about NHMRC’s
activities relating to ME/CFS clinical guidelines below.
In 2017, NHMRC established an advisory committee to advise the NHMRC
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on the ME/CFS research and clinical guidance
needs in Australia. On 30 April 2019, the committee presented the CEO with
the [2]Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory
Committee Report to the NHMRC Chief Executive Officer. This report
included a recommendation about developing ME/CFS clinical guidelines
(refer: section 5.3.3). In response to this report, the CEO wrote an
[3]open letter to stakeholders on 18 October 2019. This letter advised
that NHMRC should develop clinical guidance on ME/CFS (noting that the
current Australian advice, published by the Royal Australasian College of
Physicians in 2002, needed to be updated and replaced). NHMRC also needed
to identify a funding source to develop the guidance.
On 20 June 2024, the Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon Mark
Butler MP, announced that the Government would provide $1.1 million to
NHMRC to develop clinical guidelines in consultation with patient groups,
health professionals, and medical scientists (refer: the [4]Minister’s
media release).
Currently, the ME/CFS clinical guidelines are in the early stages of
development. Further information about the guideline scope, development
process and timeline is provided on our [5]website.
In terms of the end date for your request, NHMRC has interpreted this to
be 7 December 2024 (the date your request was submitted). As per paragraph
2.43 of the [6]FOI Guidelines—Guidelines issued by the Australian
Information Commissioner under s 93A of the Freedom of Information Act
1982, NHMRC processes FOI requests on the basis of the documents that
exist at the time that the FOI request was made.
It would assist with our processing to confirm the date range with you,
including any start date. Accordingly, could you please email
[7][NHMRC request email] by close of business Thursday 27 February 2025 to
confirm any date range for your request (for example, 1 January
2017–7 December 2024, or more recently from 1 January 2024–7 December
2024).
If you have any queries or would like to discuss, please contact the FOI
Unit by email at [8][NHMRC request email], or by phone at (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[9][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[10]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Wednesday, 5 February 2025 9:28 PM
To: [FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Notification of third-party
consultation [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request made under the [11]Freedom of Information Act 1982
(Cth) (FOI Act) to the National Health and Medical Research Council
(NHMRC) on 7 December 2024, seeking:
Information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people with ME/CFS and
a copy of the background information/correspondence that led to the NHMRC
seeking a people with experience in providing "structured rehabilitation"
to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
As noted in NHMRC’s email of 30 January 2025, NHMRC sought an additional
extension of 30 days from the Office of the Australian Information
Commissioner (OAIC) under s15AB of the FOI Act. This was due to the large
number of potentially relevant documents (779) that were found in NHMRC’s
search, and that it would therefore be difficult for NHMRC to process your
request within the remaining statutory timeframe (i.e., by 5 February
2025).
NHMRC also advised in its email of 30 January 2025, that it was working to
refine the search by reviewing the 779 documents and excluding those which
do not fall within the scope of your request.
You would have received an email from OAIC today (5 February 2025)
advising that it has declined our request to extend the processing period
and that a decision on your request is due today (5 February 2025).
Although we are still in the process of reviewing the 779 documents, we
have identified at least one document where the consultation provisions of
the FOI Act (sections 27 and 27A) apply – that is, where documents contain
information concerning the business, commercial or financial affairs of an
organisation, or a person’s business or professional affairs or personal
information. NHMRC is required to consult with the person or organisation
concerned before deciding on the release of the documents.
Sections 27 and 27A of the FOI Act apply when it appears to the decision
maker, that the person or organisation concerned might wish to contend
that the requested documents are exempt because their release would, or
could reasonably be expected to, unreasonably adversely affect their
business or financial affairs (section 27), or their personal privacy
(section 27A).
More information about exemptions under the FOI Act is available on OAIC’s
website: [12]www.oaic.gov.au/freedom-of-information
While any comments received from an individual or organisation that is
consulted will be taken into account, the final decision about whether to
grant you access to the documents you have requested rests with the
decision maker authorised under subsection 23(1) of the FOI Act.
In accordance with subsection 15(6) of the FOI Act, the period for
processing your request has been extended by an extra 30 days to allow
NHMRC time to consult with third parties. This places the due date at 7
March 2025.
If you have any questions or wish to discuss this notice, please contact
the NHMRC FOI Unit at [13][NHMRC request email] or on (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[14][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[15]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[16][NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Thursday, 30 January 2025 6:44 PM
To: [17][FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[18][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Update on status and seeking an OAIC
extension [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I am writing to provide an update on the processing of your FOI request.
NHMRC has conducted a search of its electronic files and email mailboxes
to find any documents that may be relevant to your request. The key search
terms used were [‘Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome’,
‘ME/CFS’, ‘ME-CFS’, ‘MECFS’, ‘long COVID’ and ‘structured
rehabilitation’]. I note that these are general search terms that have
been used due to the nature of your request (e.g., information regarding
'structed rehabilitation’…, with no date range).
This search has found a large number of documents (total of 779) that may
potentially be relevant to your request. We are trying to refine this
search by reviewing the documents and excluding those which do not fall
within the scope of your request.
Due to the large number of documents identified, NHMRC has determined that
it will be difficult to process your request within the remaining
statutory timeframe (i.e., by 5 February 2025). As you have agreed to a
30-day extension under s15AA of the FOI Act, NHMRC will be seeking an
additional extension of 30 days from the [19]Office of the Australian
Information Commissioner (OAIC) under [20]s15AB of the FOI Act. This extra
30 days will allow NHMRC time to continue reviewing the documents found in
the search, determine the next steps (which may include discussing the
scope of your request with you) and processing accordingly.
If OAIC agrees to the additional extension, the due date for your request
will be 7 March 2025. We will let you know whether this extension is
granted.
Please note that if during the processing of an FOI request NHMRC
determines that a ‘practical refusal reason’ exists (e.g. the resource
impact of processing the request would be substantial and unreasonable),
NHMRC may refuse access to the FOI request. However, NHMRC must formally
consult with the applicant before refusing the request (under section 24AB
of the FOI Act). If NHMRC decided to undertake such a formal ‘request
consultation’ process, it would be separate to this email.
If you have any queries or would like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to
contact us via email at [21][NHMRC request email] or by phone on (02) 6217
9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[22][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[23]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[24][NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Monday, 20 January 2025 6:28 PM
To: [25][FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[26][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Thank you for your email.
Our apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
We are working on your request, and we will be in touch as soon as
possible.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[27][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[28]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[29][FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Thursday, 16 January 2025 11:06 PM
To: Marion Berry <[30][email address]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Marion Berry,
Can you please advise me if there has been any progress towards providing
the requested informaion.
Yours sincerely,
Zac Elwood
-----Original Message-----
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
Thank you for your below email and for agreeing to the extension of 30
days (under s15AA of the FOI Act).
The due date for your request is now 5 February 2025.
If you have any queries, please contact the FOI Unit at:
[1][NHMRC request email] or on: (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Marion
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Please use this email address for all replies to this request:
[31][FOI #12498 email]
This request has been made by an individual using Right to Know. This
message and any reply that you make will be published on the internet.
More information on how Right to Know works can be found at:
[32]https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlo...
Please note that in some cases publication of requests and responses will
be delayed.
If you find this service useful as an FOI officer, please ask your web
manager to link to us from your organisation's FOI page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This email (including any attached files) is intended only for the
addressee, it may contain confidential information. If you are not the
addressee, you are notified that any transmission, distribution, printing
or duplication of this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received
this email in error please promptly inform the sender and delete all
copies of this e-mail and all attachments.
Unless explicitly attributed, the opinions expressed do not necessarily
represent the official position of the National Health and Medical
Research Council.
Please consider the environment before printing this email, thank you.
References
Visible links
1. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/C2...
2. https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/about-us/public...
3. https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/about-us/public...
4. https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-...
5. https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/health-advice/m...
6. http://www.oaic.gov.au/freedom-of-inform...
7. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
8. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
9. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
10. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
11. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/C2...
12. http://www.oaic.gov.au/freedom-of-inform...
13. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
14. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
15. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
16. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
17. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
18. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
19. https://www.oaic.gov.au/
20. https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A025...
21. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
22. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
23. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
24. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
25. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
26. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
27. mailto:[NHMRC request email]
28. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/
29. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
30. mailto:[email address]
31. mailto:[FOI #12498 email]
32. https://www.righttoknow.org.au/help/offi...
OFFICIAL
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
Please see the attached correspondence and documents in relation to your
FOI Request.
If you have any queries, please contact the FOI Unit at:
[1][NHMRC request email]
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[2][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[3]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
OFFICIAL
From: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Wednesday, 26 February 2025 12:21 PM
To: [FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Clarification of date range
[SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request made under the [4]Freedom of Information Act 1982
(Cth) (FOI Act) to the National Health and Medical Research Council
(NHMRC) on 7 December 2024, seeking:
Information regarding 'structed [structured] rehabilitation" for people
with ME/CFS and a copy of the background information/correspondence that
led to the NHMRC seeking a people with experience in providing "structured
rehabilitation" to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
I am writing to clarify the timeframe/date range of your request,
particularly for information regarding “structured rehabilitation" for
people with ME/CFS.
NHMRC has interpreted your request to be seeking more recent documents,
given NHMRC’s activities in relation to the development of new guidelines
for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), which is
the focus of your request. I’ve provided some information about NHMRC’s
activities relating to ME/CFS clinical guidelines below.
In 2017, NHMRC established an advisory committee to advise the NHMRC
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on the ME/CFS research and clinical guidance
needs in Australia. On 30 April 2019, the committee presented the CEO with
the [5]Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory
Committee Report to the NHMRC Chief Executive Officer. This report
included a recommendation about developing ME/CFS clinical guidelines
(refer: section 5.3.3). In response to this report, the CEO wrote an
[6]open letter to stakeholders on 18 October 2019. This letter advised
that NHMRC should develop clinical guidance on ME/CFS (noting that the
current Australian advice, published by the Royal Australasian College of
Physicians in 2002, needed to be updated and replaced). NHMRC also needed
to identify a funding source to develop the guidance.
On 20 June 2024, the Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon Mark
Butler MP, announced that the Government would provide $1.1 million to
NHMRC to develop clinical guidelines in consultation with patient groups,
health professionals, and medical scientists (refer: the [7]Minister’s
media release).
Currently, the ME/CFS clinical guidelines are in the early stages of
development. Further information about the guideline scope, development
process and timeline is provided on our [8]website.
In terms of the end date for your request, NHMRC has interpreted this to
be 7 December 2024 (the date your request was submitted). As per paragraph
2.43 of the [9]FOI Guidelines—Guidelines issued by the Australian
Information Commissioner under s 93A of the Freedom of Information Act
1982, NHMRC processes FOI requests on the basis of the documents that
exist at the time that the FOI request was made.
It would assist with our processing to confirm the date range with you,
including any start date. Accordingly, could you please email
[10][NHMRC request email] by close of business Thursday 27 February 2025 to
confirm any date range for your request (for example, 1 January
2017–7 December 2024, or more recently from 1 January 2024–7 December
2024).
If you have any queries or would like to discuss, please contact the FOI
Unit by email at [11][NHMRC request email], or by phone at (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[12][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[13]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[14][NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Wednesday, 5 February 2025 9:28 PM
To: [15][FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[16][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Notification of third-party
consultation [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I refer to your request made under the [17]Freedom of Information Act 1982
(Cth) (FOI Act) to the National Health and Medical Research Council
(NHMRC) on 7 December 2024, seeking:
Information regarding 'structed rehabilitation" for people with ME/CFS and
a copy of the background information/correspondence that led to the NHMRC
seeking a people with experience in providing "structured rehabilitation"
to assist in developing new guidelines for ME/CFS.
As noted in NHMRC’s email of 30 January 2025, NHMRC sought an additional
extension of 30 days from the Office of the Australian Information
Commissioner (OAIC) under s15AB of the FOI Act. This was due to the large
number of potentially relevant documents (779) that were found in NHMRC’s
search, and that it would therefore be difficult for NHMRC to process your
request within the remaining statutory timeframe (i.e., by 5 February
2025).
NHMRC also advised in its email of 30 January 2025, that it was working to
refine the search by reviewing the 779 documents and excluding those which
do not fall within the scope of your request.
You would have received an email from OAIC today (5 February 2025)
advising that it has declined our request to extend the processing period
and that a decision on your request is due today (5 February 2025).
Although we are still in the process of reviewing the 779 documents, we
have identified at least one document where the consultation provisions of
the FOI Act (sections 27 and 27A) apply – that is, where documents contain
information concerning the business, commercial or financial affairs of an
organisation, or a person’s business or professional affairs or personal
information. NHMRC is required to consult with the person or organisation
concerned before deciding on the release of the documents.
Sections 27 and 27A of the FOI Act apply when it appears to the decision
maker, that the person or organisation concerned might wish to contend
that the requested documents are exempt because their release would, or
could reasonably be expected to, unreasonably adversely affect their
business or financial affairs (section 27), or their personal privacy
(section 27A).
More information about exemptions under the FOI Act is available on OAIC’s
website: [18]www.oaic.gov.au/freedom-of-information
While any comments received from an individual or organisation that is
consulted will be taken into account, the final decision about whether to
grant you access to the documents you have requested rests with the
decision maker authorised under subsection 23(1) of the FOI Act.
In accordance with subsection 15(6) of the FOI Act, the period for
processing your request has been extended by an extra 30 days to allow
NHMRC time to consult with third parties. This places the due date at 7
March 2025.
If you have any questions or wish to discuss this notice, please contact
the NHMRC FOI Unit at [19][NHMRC request email] or on (02) 6217 9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[20][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[21]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[22][NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Thursday, 30 January 2025 6:44 PM
To: [23][FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[24][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Update on status and seeking an OAIC
extension [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
I am writing to provide an update on the processing of your FOI request.
NHMRC has conducted a search of its electronic files and email mailboxes
to find any documents that may be relevant to your request. The key search
terms used were [‘Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome’,
‘ME/CFS’, ‘ME-CFS’, ‘MECFS’, ‘long COVID’ and ‘structured
rehabilitation’]. I note that these are general search terms that have
been used due to the nature of your request (e.g., information regarding
'structed rehabilitation’…, with no date range).
This search has found a large number of documents (total of 779) that may
potentially be relevant to your request. We are trying to refine this
search by reviewing the documents and excluding those which do not fall
within the scope of your request.
Due to the large number of documents identified, NHMRC has determined that
it will be difficult to process your request within the remaining
statutory timeframe (i.e., by 5 February 2025). As you have agreed to a
30-day extension under s15AA of the FOI Act, NHMRC will be seeking an
additional extension of 30 days from the [25]Office of the Australian
Information Commissioner (OAIC) under [26]s15AB of the FOI Act. This extra
30 days will allow NHMRC time to continue reviewing the documents found in
the search, determine the next steps (which may include discussing the
scope of your request with you) and processing accordingly.
If OAIC agrees to the additional extension, the due date for your request
will be 7 March 2025. We will let you know whether this extension is
granted.
Please note that if during the processing of an FOI request NHMRC
determines that a ‘practical refusal reason’ exists (e.g. the resource
impact of processing the request would be substantial and unreasonable),
NHMRC may refuse access to the FOI request. However, NHMRC must formally
consult with the applicant before refusing the request (under section 24AB
of the FOI Act). If NHMRC decided to undertake such a formal ‘request
consultation’ process, it would be separate to this email.
If you have any queries or would like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to
contact us via email at [27][NHMRC request email] or by phone on (02) 6217
9000.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[28][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[29]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
From: NHMRC FOI <[30][NHMRC request email]>
Sent: Monday, 20 January 2025 6:28 PM
To: [31][FOI #12498 email]
Cc: NHMRC FOI <[32][NHMRC request email]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Zac
Thank you for your email.
Our apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
We are working on your request, and we will be in touch as soon as
possible.
Kind regards
Kate
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
[33][NHMRC request email]
+61 (0) 2 6217 9000
[34]nhmrc.gov.au
In the spirit of reconciliation, NHMRC acknowledges the Traditional
Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land,
sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present
and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
-----Original Message-----
From: Zac Elwood <[35][FOI #12498 email]>
Sent: Thursday, 16 January 2025 11:06 PM
To: Marion Berry <[36][email address]>
Subject: RE: Reminder: FOI Request 2024/25-006 – Seeking an extension to
the timeframe [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Dear Marion Berry,
Can you please advise me if there has been any progress towards providing
the requested informaion.
Yours sincerely,
Zac Elwood
-----Original Message-----
Dear Zac
Re - Freedom of Information Request: No. 2024/25-006
Thank you for your below email and for agreeing to the extension of 30
days (under s15AA of the FOI Act).
The due date for your request is now 5 February 2025.
If you have any queries, please contact the FOI Unit at:
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Kind regards
Marion
____________________________________________________
NHMRC Freedom of Information
National Health & Medical Research Council
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