Putting clients at centre of the Public Trustee

The final recommendation from the 2021 Independent Review report by Damian Bugg KC has been successfully delivered, providing major improvements and savings for clients.

Attorney-General, Guy Barnett, said the reforms have put clients at the centre of the Public Trustee's work.

“Today, we mark the completion of all 28 recommendations arising from the 2021 Independent Review conducted by Damian Bugg AM KC,” the Attorney-General said.

“When the review was handed down, the Tasmanian Government committed to implementing every recommendation. That commitment reflected the importance of the Public Trustee's role in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

“The changes have delivered savings averaging $500 a year for around 600 Tasmanians whose financial affairs it manages.

“Client satisfaction has also improved, reflecting a stronger focus on listening to and supporting those the organisation serves.

“The reforms delivered over the past five years have strengthened governance, improved transparency and accountability, enhanced client engagement and delivered practical benefits for Tasmanians who rely on the Public Trustee's services.

“These reforms form part of a broader commitment to ensuring Tasmanians are treated with dignity, respect and afforded as much choice and independence as possible.

“They recognise that good public services are built around the needs of the people they support.

“While today marks the completion of the review recommendations, it is not the end of the journey.

“Continuous improvement remains important, and I know the Public Trustee is committed to continuing to strengthen the services it provides to Tasmanians.

“I would like to acknowledge Damian Bugg AM KC for his review and the roadmap it provided for reform and I also want to thank the Public Trustee Board, CEO Todd Kennedy and all staff who have worked so hard to deliver these changes, as well as newly reappointed chair of PT Therese Taylor.

“Reform of this scale requires commitment and leadership, and today's achievement reflects the dedication of many people over several years.”