CHAPTER 1 | year in review

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

Over the past three years, there has been a steady increase in the Ombudsman's international program, with study tours by senior-level delegations from China, Indonesia, Japan, Mauritius, Thailand and the United Kingdom, and representatives from other countries also visiting the office.

We completed the first year of two three-year, AusAID-funded programs in Indonesia and Thailand. These programs aim to facilitate the exchange of specialist advice, training, technical assistance and support to the ombudsman's offices. During the year, two of the three Thai Ombudsman, Mr Piya-Anant and General Meepien, visited our Canberra and Melbourne offices, providing a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge and ideas.

The Ombudsman believes the office is well placed to play a key supporting role in the development and enhancement of ombudsman offices throughout the Asia–Pacific region. In this regard, we are currently exploring opportunities to provide advice and assistance to ombudsman institutions in the South Pacific.