The Tasmanian Government has delivered on its commitment to reform the Public Trustee, with all 28 recommendations of the 2021 Independent Review by Damian Bugg AM KC now complete.
The reforms have put clients at the centre of the Public Trustee’s work and delivered savings averaging $500 a year for around 600 Tasmanians whose financial affairs it manages.
Minister for Justice, Guy Barnett, said the Public Trustee supports some of the most vulnerable people in our community, and it is essential they receive the support they require.
“When the Government commissioned the Independent Review, we committed to implementing every recommendation. Today, that work is done. The result is a Public Trustee that is more transparent, more accountable and more affordable for the Tasmanians who rely on it,” Minister Barnett said.
“I want to thank Damian Bugg AM KC, as well as the Public Trustee’s Board, CEO and staff for delivering this significant reform over the past five years.”
Public Trustee Board Chair Therese Taylor said, “The Board has led this reform program with a clear focus on delivering better outcomes for clients and strengthening the organisation for the future.”
Public Trustee CEO Todd Kennedy said the organisation that emerged from the reform program was fundamentally different.
“Every part of this program has been about our clients. Satisfaction has improved, fees are lower, and the people we support have a real say in how we work.*
“Clients tell us they feel heard, respected and supported. That is the best indicator of success we could hope for. It’s also a better place to work, with staff driving this change and shaping our culture.
“Completing the review recommendations is a milestone, not a finish line. Our focus now is on continuous improvement, and we want the Public Trustee to be a service all Tasmanians can trust and afford,” Mr Kennedy said.
* 89 per cent reported client account manager treats them with respect, 81 per cent feel supported to become financially independent & 89% Support Network Satisfaction with Services Provided – Independent Client Satisfaction Report 2025 MYRIAD Research
For more information www.publictrustee.tas.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Public-Trustee_Represented-Persons-Survey_JUL2025-1.pdf