The Hon. Michael Lavarch AO named new Chair of Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman Board
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) Limited is pleased to announce Professor the Hon. Michael Lavarch AO has been unanimously appointed Independent Chair, and has succeeded Patricia Faulkner AO upon her retirement from the role on 14 July, 2019.
Ms Faulkner has held the role of Chair since February 2014, when the governance structure of the company was changed from a dual to a unitary governance model. During her tenure Ms Faulkner oversaw the phased reduction in the size of the Board to a balanced mix of consumer, industry and independent directors, which streamlined decision-making and provided greater oversight of the TIO by a single body. Another significant development during her time was the introduction of a new funding model for the TIO, which simplified the complaint handling experience for consumers, small businesses and providers, and ensured the scheme’s financial viability into the future.
In congratulating Professor Lavarch on his appointment, Ms Faulkner noted his extensive corporate board experience, the expertise he had demonstrated in many different and diverse organisations, as well as his knowledge of telecommunications issues and his deep expertise in dispute resolution and external dispute resolution schemes. Professor Lavarch has been on the Board of TIO Limited since 2017 in the role of Director with Not for Profit Governance Experience.
Professor Lavarch thanked Ms Faulkner for her distinguished service. “This is a dynamic time in telecommunications. I am excited to be appointed Chair the TIO Board and look forward to delivering the strategic plan that will take the TIO to 2023 and beyond.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
For all media enquiries please contact Sarah Carnovale on 0437 548 540 or mediaenquiries@tio.com.au.
About the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman provides a free and independent dispute resolution service for consumers and small businesses who have an unresolved complaint about their phone or internet service. Consumers and small businesses should contact www.tio.com.au or 1800 062 058.
The Telecommunications Industry Sector
The Telecommunications industry regulators are the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) http://www.acma.gov.au Media enquiries to 02 9334 7719, 0434 652 063 or media@acma.gov.au and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) https://www.accc.gov.au Media enquiries to 1300 138 917, media@accc.gov.au
Government and the regulators set policy and regulations for the telecommunications sector.
Communications Alliance is the peak body for Australian communications industry http://www.commsalliance.com.au Media enquiries to Sefiani Communications, (www.sefiani.com.au) 61 431 478 558.
The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) is Australia’s peak communications consumer organisation representing individuals, small businesses and not-for-profit groups as consumers of communications products and services. http://accan.org.au/index.php Media enquiries to 0409 966 931 or 02 9288 4000.
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and extend our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples from all nations of this land.