Submissions are now open for the independent review into the administrative and operational practices of the Public Trustee being conducted by Mr Damian Bugg AM QC.
This will allow everyone to have their say about the Public Trustee, while also allowing the opportunity for members of the community and stakeholders to provide feedback on the broader guardianship and administration framework, which will inform the further work underway for tranche 2 of the Guardianship and Administration Act reforms.
I encourage all members of the public who wish to make a submission to do so at https://www.justice.tas.gov.au/community-consultation. Submissions will be open until Friday, 20 August 2021.
It is anticipated that Mr Bugg will also establish a process to meet with relevant key stakeholders in the coming weeks, as well as ensuring that those who need support to make a submission receive it.
The Department of Justice will be further promoting the consultation process through advertisements in the major Tasmanian regional newspapers next Saturday, 24 July 2021.
The Government expects to receive a Report from Mr Bugg by 30 November 2021.
I also note the retirement of the CEO of the Public Trustee, Mr David Benbow, who has announced his last day will be Thursday, 13 August 2021.
Mr Benbow’s retirement is unrelated to the current review, having advised me of his intentions earlier this year, and I thank him for his seven years of service in this very difficult and important role.
An Acting CEO will be appointed shortly and a recruitment process for a new CEO will commence in coming weeks.