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Surveillance devices

In addition to its complaint investigation function, the Ombudsman’s office undertakes a variety of monitoring roles to ensure compliance with legislative requirements applying to selected law enforcement and regulatory activities. Under the Telecommunications (Interception) Act 1979 and the Crimes Act 1914, the Ombudsman is responsible for monitoring the integrity of the records of telecommunications interceptions and controlled (covert) operations conducted by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Crime Commission (ACC).

This role expanded during 2004–05 with passage of the Surveillance Devices Act 2004, which gives the Ombudsman a similar role in relation to the AFP and ACC use of listening devices and similar technology.