Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman

About the Office of the Commonwealth Ombudsman (OCO)

The OCO is a non-corporate government entity established under the Ombudsman Act 1976 (Ombudsman Act). The OCO operates independently within the Attorney-General’s portfolio to safeguard the community in its dealings with government agencies, ensure the administrative actions of Australian Government departments and agencies are fair and accountable and influence systemic change. The OCO reports to Parliament about law enforcement agencies use of covert and intrusive powers, inspects immigration detention facilities, and oversees the operation of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013.

The OCO can consider complaints or initiate investigations relating to most federal government organisations, and performs a broad range of other statutory functions as:

  • ACT Government Ombudsman
  • Private Health Insurance Ombudsman
  • Postal Industry Ombudsman 
  • Overseas Student Ombudsman
  • Defence Force Ombudsman
  • VET Student Loans Ombudsman
  • National Student Ombudsman.

More information about the OCO can be found in the Ombudsman Act and on the Commonwealth Ombudsman website.

Role of the Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman

A Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman is a statutory office holder, appointed under section 21 of the Ombudsman Act. The Ombudsman Act provides that there is at least one and not more than 3 Deputy Ombudsmen appointed to the OCO.

A Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman is responsible for assisting the Commonwealth Ombudsman with the strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the OCO and with the development of policies, systems and processes for conducting effective and timely complaint investigations and compliance audits. 

A Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman builds strong and enduring working relationships with key stakeholders, including the senior staff of government departments and agencies and private sector organisations. A Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman also represents the OCO in a wide range of public forums and stands in for the Commonwealth Ombudsman when they are overseas, on leave or otherwise unavailable to perform the functions of their office.

Eligibility

To be considered for appointment, applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting 2 (NV2) security clearance. To be eligible for an Australian Government security clearance, you must be an Australian citizen and have a checkable background. For information about security clearances, visit the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency website.

Selection Criteria

In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, applicants will need to:

  • understand political, economic and social issues
  • have demonstrated capacity to conduct major investigations at a senior level, in an independent and impartial manner
  • have substantial administrative experience and knowledge of public administration, government policy, delivery of government services to the public, administrative review and administrative law
  • meet the following selection criteria consistent with the APSC Merit and Transparency Guidelines for APS statutory office holder appointments:
    • Shapes strategic thinking
      • Inspires a sense of purpose and direction
      • Focuses strategically
      • Harnesses information and opportunities
      • Shows judgement, intelligence and common sense
    • Achieves results
      • Builds organisational capability and responsiveness
      • Marshals professional expertise
      • Steers and implements change and deals with uncertainty
      • Ensures closure and delivers on intended results
    • Exemplifies personal drive and integrity
      • Demonstrates professionalism and probity
      • Engages with risk and shows personal courage
      • Commits to action
      • Displays resilience
      • Demonstrates self-awareness and a commitment to personal development
    • Cultivates productive working relationships
      • Nurtures internal and external relationships
      • Facilitates cooperation and partnerships
      • Values individual differences and diversity
      • Guides, mentors and develops people
    • Communicates with influence
      • Communicates clearly
      • Listens, understands and adapts to audience
      • Negotiates persuasively

Terms and conditions

Under the Ombudsman Act, the Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman is appointed by the Governor‑General. The term of appointment is up to 7 years, with the Ombudsman Act providing for reappointment. 

This is a full‑time position. The role is based in Canberra, however the other office locations of the OCO (Adelaide, Brisbane and Sydney) may be considered.

Remuneration and allowances for the position are set by the Remuneration Tribunal and can be viewed on the Remuneration Tribunal website at Remuneration Tribunal (Remuneration and Allowances for Holders of Full‑time Public Office) Determination 2024. 

How to apply

Apply using the online application form.

Applications must include: 

  • an indication of whether you meet the eligibility criteria for this statutory appointment
  • a completed statement of claims (2000-word limit) against the eligibility and selection criteria
  • the names and contact details of at least 2 referees who have direct and relevant experience of your work (you will be notified prior to referees being contacted)
  • an uploaded resume no longer than 4 pages outlining qualifications, knowledge and experience.

We encourage you to request the adjustments you need to help you participate in this recruitment process. 

Applications close at 5:00 pm (AEDT) on Friday, 28 February 2025.

Contact

Email enquiries about the position or application process to appointments@ag.gov.au.

Assessment process

Applicants will first be assessed by a panel on their written application. Shortlisted applicants will be further assessed by the panel at interview. 

A shortlist of suitable candidates will be provided to the Attorney-General for consideration and recommendation to the Governor-General for appointment.

Communication

Applicants will receive initial advice and communication by email. Please ensure the email address you provide is correct. We recommend using an email address that ensures you do not miss relevant updates or invitations – and please regularly check your junk or spam folders.