What is open data?
Open data is data that anyone can access, use and share without restrictions. It is machine-readable so that it can be filtered, sorted, manipulated and downloaded for use.
For NSW government, open data also refers to the proactive or on demand release of data or insights for public use, in any form and through any channel.
The video below explains NSW Government open data and the benefits it brings to the community.
Video file
Why open data?
As a public resource, open data:
- offers private businesses a way to integrate government data into new, more innovative products and services
- increases NSW government transparency and accountability to our citizens and broader NSW community
- creates a more informed debate and community engagement on NSW policy issues
- improves the quality and efficiency of government services by allowing citizens and policy makers to make more informed decisions.
Where to find open data?
NSW government agencies make open data available:
- on their websites
- via Data.NSW Open Data Portal
- via domain-specific open data portals such as:
Open data exclusions
It is important to note that open data excludes personally identifiable information, including personal health information.
Read the NSW Government Open Data Policy for more information.