Disposal authorisation process
This page explains how to gain permission to dispose of records under the State Records Act 1998 and the process for developing, reviewing, and approving a retention and disposal authority (RDA).
Determining your requirements
Contact govrec@staterecords.nsw.gov.au to confirm your organisation’s disposal authorisation coverage and requirements. These may include:
- developing a new RDA
- reviewing and updating an existing RDA
- confirming permission for ongoing use of an RDA.
See How to develop retention and disposal authorities for more details.
Reviewing and commenting on a draft RDA
State Records NSW will collaborate with you to meet your disposal requirements. After submitting a draft RDA, we will:
- review its scope, structure, and disposal justifications
- request additional information or discuss consultation needs as necessary
- compare with disposal actions in other jurisdictions
- negotiate and finalise changes.
This phase may take time depending on the complexity of the draft.
Submitting a final draft for Board approval
Once agreed, the final draft must be submitted by your CEO or senior executive to govrec@staterecords.nsw.gov.au at least 4 to 6 weeks before the State Records Authority Board meeting.
Issuing an approved RDA
After Board approval, State Records NSW will formally issue the approved RDA to your organisation.