Agency trying to “extend” Right to Information Request

Hi, I was wondering if someone might know if I can refuse a “request” for an extension for a RTI request in Queensland.

This government agency has screwed me over and purposely delayed me for ages. Now I’ve sent an RTI through and they have come back with the following reply on requesting my personal information, very likely because they have something to hide.

Can I refuse their request to extend my RTI (to double that “at least”) and reiterate that I want the info by 25 days per legislation?

Also, what is the best way to escalate this if I don’t get it as I very much think they won’t want to give me this info? What does the last sentence mean, it makes no sense to me - sounds like if you don’t agree to our extension you don’t get the info at all?

Would really appreciate any insight! Thank you

Reply from Gov Agency:

Before you decide to proceed, however, I would like to make you aware of a couple of factors that you may need to take into consideration:

The standard timeframe for processing applications is 25 business days, but the RTI/IP Acts allow for extensions to be requested.

As mentioned previously, our heavy workload is causing significant delays. We will not be able to make a decision within the standard 25 business days, and we will therefore request additional time to process your application – at least an addition 25 business days.

If we are not able to make a decision within an agreed timeframe, the decision becomes ‘Deemed’ and access is automatically refused.