13
The Role of the Ombudsman
Applicable legislation:
Ombudsman Act 1972
Ombudsman SA investigate complaints about South Australian government and local
government agencies, conduct freedom of information reviews, and support and
monitors the implementation of the Information Sharing Guidelines. Anyone can lodge
a complaint with the Ombudsman.
The Ombudsman is a completely independent officer who has comprehensive power to:
• investigate complaints brought to him about government departments and
authorities, and local government councils
• review decisions made about the supply of public information in accordance with
the
Freedom of Information Act 1999
• conduct investigations when the public have been refused access to local council
meetings and
• receive information confidentially from a person who wishes to inform about
possible improper or illegal actions, without disclosing that person’s identity.
You can complain to the Ombudsman about any action or inaction by Council. The
Ombudsman may then conduct an investigation to determine whether the process that
Council followed was reasonable and fair, and that the decision made by Council is
not unlawful, unreasonable or wrong. The Ombudsman may make a recommendation
back to Council about reviewing a decision, changing a procedure, making a refund
if appropriate or may assist you and Council to work together to find a solution. While
the Ombudsman has substantial powers, not all issues can be investigated under the
Ombudsman Act 1972.
You can contact Ombudsman
SA by:
• Calling (08) 8226 8699
• Visiting the website at
Examples might include:
• Complaining about
a matter has not been
resolved through
Council’s other
processes
You can assist in the
process by:
• Considering raising your
concern with Council in
the first instance.
• However, it is not
compulsory to speak
to Council officer
before contacting the
Ombudsman
