Background

Legislation and Regulations

• Click here for the Corrections Act 2004 (external link), sections 151 to 160
• Click here for the Corrections Regulations 2005 (external link), regulations Part 12, 159 to 166

Objective

All complaints are to be dealt with promptly and addressed in a fair and effective manner at the lowest delegated level of authority possible.

Information to offenders about making complaints

The complaint process is to be explained to all offenders at their induction or within 14 days of their first report, whichever is the sooner. The offender is to be provided with an information sheet setting out the process.

Notices explaining the complaints process are to be prominently displayed in Service Centres and Community Work Centres.

Notices must provide information about how to obtain forms for making complaints, and the right for offenders to request assistance, at any time, from the Inspector of Corrections or the Ombudsman.

Assistance to be given

Complainants who have or appear to have a communication difficulty in English, or difficulties with oral or written communication, are to be given assistance (including an interpreter where necessary) to fill out any required forms and to present their case.