How to make a complaint

Complaining to an agency

Most government agencies have a complaints process on their website. If they don’t, write to the head or Chief Executive to make your complaint.

Set out your complaint as clearly and briefly as possible. Include:

• your name and contact details
• relevant dates, places and times
• a description of the problem, incident or decision at issue
• details of any phone conversations, meetings or other steps you’ve already taken to try and sort the problem out
• any other information you think is important
• any relevant documents.

Tell the agency what action you think should be taken — you’re more likely to get what you ask for if your demands are reasonable

Ask for your letter to be acknowledged in writing and for the agency to give you an estimate of how long it will take to deal with your complaint. If there’s any urgency, let the agency know and explain why.

If your complaint isn’t resolved

If your complaint hasn’t been resolved to your satisfaction or hasn’t been responded to, you can contact the Ombudsman.

Complain to the Ombudsman