The Commonwealth Ombudsman has published an updated fact sheet setting out his Office’s functions and powers.
The updated information states that the Ombudsman’s Office is an independent authority and is not subject to Government direction, meaning it can choose what to investigate and how an investigation should be conducted.
“Ombudsman Office staff are responsible for assisting the Ombudsman to conduct each investigation, which will differ slightly depending on the complexity of issues under investigation,” the fact sheet says.
“However, the main phases of an investigation remain the same: Planning, information gathering and analysis, and reporting.”
The fact sheet says the Ombudsman’s Office is responsible for investigating complaints from individuals, groups or organisations about the administrative actions of Australian Government officials and Agencies, as well as some private sector organisations.
“The Ombudsman may also investigate administrative action taken by Agencies and selected private sector organisations, on his or her own motion, or own initiative,” it says.
“These are called own motion investigations.
“During the information gathering and analysis stage, the Ombudsman Office staff will request information from the Agency or organisation to assist the Ombudsman to draw conclusions and make findings.
“This may include a request for documents or other written information, or meetings with staff who may have responsibility for, or knowledge of, the area being investigated.
“Ombudsman Office staff might conduct site visits to observe work being undertaken or request a sample of ‘live’ cases to gain a better understanding of current practice.”
The fact sheet states that Agencies and private sector organisations are afforded certain protections under the Ombudsman Act when providing information during an investigation.
“For example, an Agency or organisation can share certain information with the Ombudsman that might otherwise be a breach of the Privacy Act,” it says.
“However, this information, once gained, will always be handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988.
“We are committed to working cooperatively with Agencies to determine the most efficient way of receiving information.
“In our experience, focussing on open and early communication, swift responses to our requests for information, and remaining transparent, ensures this part of the process runs as smoothly as possible.”
The Ombudsman’s two-page fact sheet can be accessed on the Office’s website at this PS News link.
