Murray Allen to be appointed Ombudsman

24/9/96

Premier Richard Court today announced that the Governor in Executive Council had approved the appointment of Mr Murray Allen as the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administrative Investigations (Ombudsman).

Mr Allen will take up the position on November 25 for a five-year term. He takes over the position from Mr Robert Eadie.

The Ombudsman is an independent officer who deals with complaints relating to the actions of State Government departments, local authorities, most statutory authorities and the Police Service.

Mr Court said Mr Allen was well-qualified for such a demanding position as Ombudsman having a strong legal background, investigative experience and proven management skills.

Mr Allen, a Western Australian, comes to the position after more than five years as the Regional Commissioner for the Australian Securities Commission in this State.

Previously, Mr Allen was a director in the Potter Warburg investment banking group in Melbourne and director of the Securities Markets Branch of the National Companies and Securities Commission.

Mr Allen has also worked as a barrister and solicitor in private practice in WA.

Mr Court said that Mr Allen's legal and administrative background would stand him in good stead for a position which dealt with matters arising out of Government decisions.

"I am sure Mr Allen will handle this difficult job well," the Premier said.

He said the public of WA had been well served by outgoing Ombudsman Robert Eadie, who had been diligent in carrying out his duties over the past five years.

Media contact: Casey Cahill 222 9475