Map: Australia's data availability compared to the rest of the world

Australia is the fifth most transparent country in the world when it comes to information, according to the Open Knowledge Index 2014 - but government spending data is not as available as it could be.

(AAP)

Australia is the fifth best country in the world for open data, up four spots since last year, according to the Open Data 2014 Index.

The index measures whether datasets, like government spending and pollution figures, are publicly available and can be easily-downloaded.

Open data and information can promote transparent governance, stimulate economic growth and encourage and increase engagement, index creator Open Knowledge said.

"Open information is essential to help everyone understand the issues, think of and try out solutions, and keep track of the risks and successes," the Open Knowledge website says.

Map: Open Knowledge.

While Australia ranks well, government spending data was not easy to access and use, the report said.

The AusTender website, where government spending is published, reveals the estimates of projects when they are awarded, not the actual cost when the transaction takes place, the report said.