Before Filing a Complaint

The Alberta Ombudsman is the voice of fairness for Albertans.

His office objectively investigates complaints to determine whether the organization in question has acted fairly and reasonably, and whether their actions and decisions were consistent with relevant legislation, policies, and procedures. We are independent from the government, and we work to ensure public services are fair for everyone.

Navigating public services can be challenging, so we’ve developed a Complaint Checker to help you advance your complaint based on your unique circumstances.

Not sure if we can help?

Use our Complaint Checker

to find out.

Complaint Checker

What We Do

  • We provide information and resources to help you advance your complaint in the right direction.
  • We ask you to try and resolve your issue with the organization and obtain a final decision or response.
  • We evaluate the administrative fairness of decisions that affect you.
  • We conduct impartial and independent investigations into complaints.
  • We look for patterns and trends to address systemic problems.
  • We suggest ways to improve public services to prevent future issues and promote fair treatment.

What We Don’t Do

  • We don’t act as an advocate for complainants, government departments or professional organizations.
  • We can’t investigate until all avenues of appeal have been completed and you have received a final decision or response.
  • We might not be able to help if you haven’t tried all available appeals.
  • We don’t investigate complaints that fall outside our legislation.
  • If you are unsure of your next steps, contact the authority first, use our Complaint Checker, or contact us directly.

Who is your complaint about?

The Ombudsman can investigate:

  • Alberta provincial government departments, agencies, boards, and commissions
  • Alberta municipalities
  • Patient Concerns Resolution Process of Alberta Health Services
  • Self-regulated health professions, proclaimed under the Health Professions Act such as Alberta College of Optometrists
  • Other designated professional authorities such as accounting, forestry, veterinarian and agrologist professions

The Ombudsman cannot investigate:

  • Federal governments decisions
  • Elected officials (City Councillors, MLAs, or MPs)
  • Police (federal or municipal)
  • Universities or schools
  • The courts
  • Private businesses or personal matters

If your issue is not within our scope, we can direct you to the proper office to make your complaint.

Not sure if our office can become involved with your complaint?

Use Our Complaint Checker!
Complaint Checker

Take the following steps to try to resolve your complaint:

  • Ask if you can speak with a supervisor or manager about your issue.
  • Clearly explain the specific issue and outcome you seek.
  • Ask if there is a review or appeal available.
  • Write down the names of the people you speak with, when you spoke with them, and what they said.
  • Treat people respectfully and listen carefully to them.
  • Ask questions if you do not understand what is being said.

Is your complaint ready for us?

The Ombudsman is the final reviewer. Take your complaint directly to a supervisor within the organization. Complete all review or appeal processes. If you still feel you were treated unfairly contact us.

Not Sure? Contact Us!

If you don’t see the organization you’re looking for or you’re still not sure what your next steps are, we can still help! Contact us directly to find out whether our office can become involved with your complaint or direct you to the right place.