The NSW Ombudsman, Michael Barnes has released his Office’s Annual Report, revealing a new Statement of Corporate Purpose and a flatter organisational structure.
The Ombudsman said the Office’s flatter organisational structure meant business units reflected function rather than subject matter.
“Emanating from the Statement of Corporate Purpose and supported by our staff, a new set of values guide the operation and functions of the office,” Mr Barnes said.
He said this year’s annual report used case studies to show the difference the Office made to the lives of individuals and their families.
“A primary function of the office is to receive and resolve complaints about the conduct of state and local government agencies, government and non-government community service providers, and public and private correctional centres,” he said.
“Over the past year, we received more than 40,000 contacts, with almost half being complaints.”
Mr Barnes said that in 2018–19, the Office managed 19 investigations, some of which were continuing from previous years and eight of which were closed by 30 June 2019.
“These included investigations into water compliance and enforcement, and Family and Community Services processes for sharing risk-related information,” he said.
“In September 2018, we tabled a report in Parliament on the implementation of the Whole of Government Commitments to Effective Complaint Handling.”
He said the Office continued its inquiry into allegations of abuse and neglect of adults with disability in home and community settings.
“That inquiry precipitated the establishment of the Ageing and Disability Commission,” Mr Barnes said.
The 130-page Ombudsman’s report can be accessed at this PS News link.
