Recommendation 13

It is a fundamental right that people should have appropriate and accessible routes of appeal. Actions by government bodies are in principle subject to judicial review through the courts, but this is an expensive process.25 Ombudsman services provide a way for people to seek independent review of their complaints without the cost of pursuing action through the courts. They are independent statutory organisations set up to make final decisions on complaints that cannot be resolved. Where they make a decision in favour of the complainant, they can typically award or recommend redress.26