New Ombudsman for NSW

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian today announced the Government has proposed the appointment of Michael Barnes as the NSW Ombudsman.

Mr Barnes is currently the State Coroner of NSW, a role he commenced in 2014 following a career in law and academia stretching back to 1980. He recently handed down findings in the Inquest into the deaths arising from the Lindt Café siege.

“Mr Barnes brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this important role,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I have every confidence that under his leadership, NSW Government agencies will continue to operate with fairness and transparency.”

The proposed appointment is subject to review by the NSW Parliament’s Committee on the Ombudsman, the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission and the Crime Commission.

If approved by the Committee and the Governor, Mr Barnes will commence in the role on 4 December 2017.

Until that time, Professor John McMillan AO, who was appointed in 2015, will continue to serve as Acting NSW Ombudsman.

Ms Berejiklian thanked Professor McMillan for his service to NSW.