Queensland appoints new Ombudsman
An Integrity Commissioner with more than three decades’ experience in the public sector has landed a new role sorting out complaints and promoting the treatment of people in detention.
Queensland Integrity Commissioner Linda Waugh is gearing up for a new challenge as the state’s new Ombudsman and Inspector of Detention Services.
Waugh, who has acted as Commissioner for the past three years, is currently responsible for providing advice on ethics and integrity issues to members of parliament, their staff, senior public servants, and statutory office holders.
As Ombudsman, Waugh will investigate complaints about the actions and decisions of Queensland agencies.
And as Inspector of Dentention Service, she will promote the humane treatment of detainees and the prevention of harm through reviews, inspections and independent reporting.
Waugh said she was looking forward to ensuring “public administration remains fair and accountable for Queenslanders”.
“I recognise the vital role the Ombudsman has within the public sector integrity framework in Queensland, and the importance of its work in strengthening public confidence in our public institutions,” she said in a statement.
“I am grateful to have this opportunity [and] I am deeply honoured to be appointed Ombudsman.”
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington, who is also Justice and Integrity Minister, welcomed Waugh’s appointment.
“Ms Waugh is a highly skilled leader who has dedicated her career to strengthening integrity, accountability and public trust in government,” Frecklington said.
Stay informed, daily
“I am confident her extensive experience and understanding of public sector management will be invaluable as she moves into the role of Ombudsman.”
Waugh will begin a three-year term as Ombudsman on November 23, leaving her current role as Queensland Integrity Commissioner open.
That will be “advertised in due course”, according to a statement.
Want to see more stories from InDaily Qld in your Google search results?
- Click here to set InDaily Qld as a preferred source.
- Tick the box next to "InDaily Qld". That's it.
