Job Posting: La Trobe University

The public research university based in Melbourne, Victoria, is seeking its first University Ombudsman. The part-time (0.6 FTE) position will serve about 38,000 staff and students, and is offered as a fixed-term appointment of three to five years. The posting also emphasizes providing "strategic advice" to university leadership and developing annual reports and recommendations. 

Applicants should have experience handling sensitive matters and expertise in mediation, conflict resolution, restorative practice, or organizational dispute resolution. La Trobe seeks candidates who can provide advice to senior executives and governing bodies, identify systemic concerns, and communicate effectively with stakeholders across the university. Prior Ombuds experience is not required. Applications are due August 2, 2026. Compensation not provided, but the position offers 17% superannuation and other benefits. (La Trobe Careers.) 

The creation of an Organizational Ombuds office at an Australian university is noteworthy because such programs remain rare in Australia, where institutions have traditionally relied on formal grievance processes and external review bodies rather than informal dispute resolution programs. The development also comes less than two years after Australia established a National Student Ombudsman with the power to investigate student complaints against higher education providers. 

Related posts: Australia Appoints First National Student Ombuds.