For over two decades, the Commonwealth and state governments in Australia have supported the establishment of industry-based Ombudsman schemes.
In 1997, the Commonwealth Government issued the Benchmarks for Industry-based Customer Dispute Resolution Schemes—commonly known as the National Benchmarks—setting out principles of accessibility, independence, fairness, accountability, efficiency and effectiveness. EWOV operates in accordance with these principles.
We maintain good working relationships with the state and federal government departments and agencies that have responsibility for the energy and water industries—including the Department of Primary Industries, the Department of Sustainability and Environment and Consumer Affairs Victoria.
We also take opportunities to contribute our experience of customer complaints to government consultation processes.