Senior New South Wales public servant Paul Miller has been appointed as the state’s next ombud, replacing Michael Barnes.
Miller has been acting in the position since August 2020, when Barnes took up the role of NSW crime commissioner.
Prior to that, Miller held the roles of deputy ombud, commissioner for community and disability services, and general counsel. He has also served as deputy secretary at the Department of Premier and Cabinet and the Department of Justice.
Miller on Friday said he was honoured to lead the organisation.
“Our aim is to bridge the imbalance of power between individuals and government, helping to ensure that everyone receives the right services and is treated fairly,” he said in a statement.
Special minister of state Don Harwin said he was “delighted” with Miller’s appointment.
“He has brought a wealth of experience since acting in the role, and exemplifies the highest standards of independence and integrity in public service,” he said.
Miller has previously raised concerns over the ombud office’s funding allocation, labelling it as “insufficient to deliver our required statutory obligations”.
READ MORE: NSW ombud joins call for increased funding for integrity agencies
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