95Review of assistance function

95 Review of assistance function

(1) The Minister must cause a review of the Ombudsman’s assistance function to be conducted at intervals determined under this section. (2) Without limiting the matters to be covered by the review, the review must consider the following matters: (a) the kinds of assistance requested during the period being reviewed; (b) whether the assistance given was convenient and effective for the operators of small businesses and family enterprises who requested assistance; (c) whether amendment of this Act is needed to more conveniently and effectively assist the operators of small businesses and family enterprises. (3) The Minister must not appoint a person to conduct the review, unless the Minister is reasonably satisfied that: (a) the person is suitably qualified to conduct the review; and (b) the person has sufficient independence from the Ombudsman, the Minister and the Department to conduct the review impartially. (4) The first review must be completed, and a written report given to the Minister, by a date determined by the Minister that is not later than 30 June 2017. (5) Each later review must be completed, and a written report given to the Minister, by a date determined by the Minister that is not more than 4 years after the date on which the report of the last review was given to the Minister. (6) The Minister must cause a copy of the report to be laid before each House of the Parliament within 15 sitting days after receiving it.