If people have a complaint about the actions of a government agency in relation to FOI, a complaint may be made to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will not usually investigate a complaint if an internal review is available or it could be taken to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

The Ombudsman can compel people to answer questions or produce documents in the course of an investigation. The Ombudsman can make recommendations that actions or decisions be changed, but cannot actually change a decision. There is no fee for Ombudsman's services.

Before appealing to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal about a refusal to grant access, the person may first consult the Ombudsman for assistance. For more information on the role of the Ombudsman, see complaints against government.