Outgoing Ombudsman Discusses Relationship With Labor Government in Fight for Independence
After a decade in the role, Victoria’s retiring Ombudsman is emphasizing the need for ‘enlightened governments’ to take bold steps and lead public opinion.
Outgoing Victorian Ombudsman Deborah Glass presented her final report to Parliament on March 25 after 10 years overseeing the integrity of the state’s public sector, stating that “Real reform was, and is still, needed in the wider justice sector.”
She criticized the government’s tough-on-crime approach to the justice system, particularly after reneging on a pledge to institute a presumption of bail for children.
Ms. Glass emphasized that reform requires a government not swayed by sensational headlines triggering reactive tightening of bail, parole, and sentencing laws. She cited the tragic case of Veronica Nelson, a troubled, non-violent individual who should not have been in prison when she passed away in January 2020.
Ms. Glass reflected on historical examples of governments making progressive decisions and leading public sentiment, noting that such leadership has brought an end to practices like public hangings and institutionalized discrimination.
She expressed hope that Victoria could regain its status as a leader in justice reform in the future.
Uneasy Relationship With Labor After ‘Red Shirts’ Scandal
Ms. Glass also shared her challenging interactions with the government following her investigation into the “red shirts” scheme, which uncovered misuse of taxpayer funds during the 2014 election campaign.
Despite initial reluctance to investigate, she pursued the case after being told she lacked jurisdiction to investigate MPs, viewing it as a battle for her independence.
The government lost in court, but the litigation strained Ms. Glass’s relationship with key Labor figures. She highlighted the consequences of the incident on public servants and expressed disappointment in the government’s response to reports of politicization in the public service.
While the Victorian Premier defended the government’s policy processes, Ms. Glass emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in the public sector.
Ms. Glass will step down as Ombudsman this week, with a new appointee taking her place.
AAP contributed to this story.
