Legislation sets out what we can do, who we can help, and what organizations we can take complaints about. It also empowers us to carry out our work with independence, impartiality, and respect for the rights of Ontarians.
The Ombudsman’s powers and jurisdiction are set out in the Ombudsman Act. We also have responsibilities under several other pieces of legislation.
Ombudsman Act
The Ombudsman’s powers and jurisdiction are set out in the Ombudsman Act. This legislation allows the Ombudsman to investigate complaints about administrative issues in the public sector, and complaints from children and youth in care. The Ombudsman reports publicly in annual reports and in special reports on specific investigations.
Related Acts
French Language Services Act
The French Languages Services Commissioner has a mandate to ensure compliance with the French Language Services Act - including the right to receive services in French from government agencies. The Commissioner reports publicly in annual reports and in special reports on specific investigations.
Read the French Language Services Act
Child, Youth and Family Services Act
Under Ontario’s Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017, children and youth in care – young people living in foster homes, group homes, treatment placements and youth justice facilities – have a legislated right to contact the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman reports publicly in annual reports and in special reports on specific investigations.
Read the Child, Youth and Family Services Act
Municipal Act
As Closed Meeting Investigator for most of Ontario’s municipalities, the Ombudsman interprets and applies the rules for closing meetings set out in the Municipal Act, 2001. The Ombudsman reports publicly in annual reports and in special reports on specific investigations.