The Organisation
The Ombudsman Tasmania is an independent authority responsible for investigating complaints about government agencies, local councils, and a range of public authorities in Tasmania, with a focus on promoting accountability, transparency, and fairness in public administration. Established under the
Ombudsman Act 1978 , it addresses issues of unfairness or improper conduct, offers guidance on navigating government processes, and makes recommendations for improving practices. In addition to overseeing government agencies and local councils, the Ombudsman has several key roles across different sectors. These include serving as the Energy Ombudsman, Tasmanian Custodial Inspector, and Tasmania's National Preventative Mechanism. The Ombudsman also holds the position of Principal Mental Health Official Visitor and Coordinator of the Prison Official Visitor's Scheme, which involves monitoring and ensuring the rights and conditions of individuals in custody.
The Ombudsman is also concurrently the Health Complaints Commissioner for Tasmania, focusing on resolving complaints about health services such as hospitals and healthcare providers. This role involves investigating serious complaints that pose risks to public safety, as well as educating the public about patient rights and complaint procedures.
Supported by a team of 35 staff, the Ombudsman and Health Complaints Commissioner ensures the integrity of public services in Tasmania, particularly in healthcare, through independent investigations, recommendations for improvements, and promoting public awareness of rights and complaint mechanisms.
The Opportunity
Following the retirement of the long-term incumbent, the Tasmanian Government is seeking a leader that brings a contemporary, outcomes-based approach to leading integrity and regulatory functions. Building on a well-established legacy, with a growing range of functions, the Ombudsman and Health Complaints Commissioner is an independent, statutory officer with responsibility for leading the agency and improving outcomes for Tasmanians.
Leading a team of subject matter experts, the Ombudsman will develop a refreshed strategic plan to address new and ongoing challenges across the spectrum of functions of the office. The Ombudsman will lead change and constructively collaborate across the public sector to improve the capability of agencies, while maintaining a strong sense of independence in decision-making.
About You
You are a principled and dynamic leader committed to delivering public value and ensuring fairness for all Tasmanians. Your actions are guided by integrity, personal accountability, and a deep understanding of modern regulatory practices. You thrive in complex and evolving environments, demonstrating the ability to lead change and drive impactful outcomes for the community.
With a strong understanding of integrity agencies and public sector operations, you approach complaint handling and investigations with rigour and a focus on continuous improvement. Your strategic and analytical skills enable you to adopt modern regulatory practices to achieve impactful results.
As a leader and natural communicator, you inspire confidence in others and unite diverse groups toward common goals while maintaining your independence and empowering Tasmanian agencies to meet their legislative obligations.
How to Apply
For a confidential discussion or role related questions, please contact Adam Dent or Ella Barnard of the Orchard Talent Group by email at
****** . To apply please submit your application and current CV via email to
****** . Please note applicants must have a legal right to work in Australia.
Applications close
at 11:55pm on 19 January 2025.
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