How do I complain about a government agency or council?

General information from Lawmateanz

Start with the agency's own complaints process, and keep a record of your contact with them.

If you're not satisfied, you can complain to the Ombudsman, which investigates complaints about government agencies and councils. It's free and independent.

Some decisions have their own review or appeal process, which may need to be used first and may have time limits.

In some cases, a decision can be challenged in the High Court through judicial review. A lawyer can advise on that.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

Lawyers listed on Lawmateanz can answer this question. If you asked it, we'll email you as soon as it's answered.

Are you a lawyer? Answer this question · List free on Lawmateanz

General information only. Answers are written by independent lawyers based only on what's in the question. They aren't legal advice about your situation and don't create a lawyer–client relationship. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer directly.