The Federal Government has welcomed Colin Neave’s formal appointment as the Commonwealth Ombudsman, following months of having the position vacant following Allan Asher’s resignation late last year.

 

Federal Minister for the Public Service and Integrity Gary Gray welcomed Mr Neave’s appointment, saying his ‘impeccable record in senior leadership’ will ensure continual improvement in the public sector.

 

“The Office of Ombudsman is a critical part of our system of government accountability,” Mr Gray said.

 

“It plays a key role in ensuring that Australians receive the public service that they deserve.”

 

Mr Neave is currently President of the Administrative Review Council, Vice Chair of the Australian Press Council, Chairperson of the Legal Services Board of Victoria and Chairman of the Commonwealth Consumer Affairs Advisory Council. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in June 2005 for service to public administration and to the banking and finance industry, particularly through dispute resolution.

 

Mr Neave’s appointment is for a period of five years commencing on 17 September 2012.