Cumberland Council is reminding the community of their access to the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service (IOSS) during Local Government Week (30 July – 5 August) 2018, the theme of which is The Power of the Community.
Council has implemented a variety of feedback mechanisms for the community – responding to customer enquiries and feedback via our website, social media channels, customer service centres, various engagement opportunities and the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service.
Mayor Greg Cummings explained that the service – shared by Cumberland Council, Inner West Council and the City of Parramatta - acts as an impartial watchdog over council activities.
The IOSS conducts independent investigations and reviews into administrative processes and services; provides education and training; and, policy review and development activities.
“The Internal Ombudsman Shared Service reflects the commitment of each member council to operating to a high standard of ethical conduct and decision-making, administrative conduct and corporate governance,” Mayor Cummings said.
“The service provides residents, ratepayers, community members, local business, Council staff and Councillors, with an independent ear regarding complaints in their local government areas, ushering in a new era of improved transparency and accountability.”
The shared service is headed up by Internal Ombudsman Suellen Bullock, supported by a team of two; Assistant Internal Ombudsman Rodney O’Donahue, and Complaint Assessment and Administration Officer Sarah Labone.
“We look forward to providing the community with greater confidence in the system of governance, administration and customer service through our independent and impartial triple governance track activities of prevention, education and investigation,” Ms Bullock said.
Members of the community, members of staff and Councillors can contact the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service by calling (02) 8757 9044 or emailing internalombudsman@cumberland.nsw.gov.au. They may also write to or visit the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service at 11 Northumberland Road, Auburn NSW 2144.
