The Parliamentary Ombudsman Judge Emeritus Joseph Zammit McKeon welcomed the Australian High Commissioner, H.E. Matthew Skelly, on a courtesy call at the Office of the Ombudsman.

During the meeting, the Ombudsman outlined the role of the Office and explained its functions.  He emphasised the fact that according to law, any person, whatever his nationality, can avail himself of the services of the Office, which are free of charge when he feels aggrieved by acts or omissions by the Government in administrative matters.

To widen knowledge on the nature of these services, outreach initiatives are vital and have been the order of the day of the present Ombudsman, including boosting public awareness through constant media exposure to engage persons who may not be familiar with the Office’s services.  The Ombudsman stressed that the services of his Office are inclusive and, therefore, are there for all to benefit, not just Maltese nationals.

High Commissioner Skelly highlighted that the relations between Malta and Australia are excellent.  He commended the Ombudsman’s proactive approach.  In particular, he referred to an article entitled ‘A Year in Office’ by the Ombudsman, published in the Times of Malta on 16 March 2024. In that opinion piece, the Ombudsman pointed out that a good part of his outreach initiatives included meeting and speaking to the Representatives of the Foreign Missions who are present in Malta, especially on matters related to the availability of the services of the Office to their nationals when in Malta.

The meeting between the Ombudsman and the High Commissioner also touched on the issue of defending human rights.

The Ombudsman illustrated his endeavours to establish a long-awaited National Human Rights Institute in Malta, aligned with the Paris Principles of the United Nations.

The meeting also touched on broader themes of migration and integration, with High Commissioner Skelly highlighting Australia’s long history of multiculturalism and how being comprised of people from all over the world positioned Australia to understand global interests.

He warmly welcomed the inaugural address of H.E. President Myriam Spiteri Debono, especially in that part where H.E. the President advocated in favour of a shift from mere tolerance of migrants to their full integration. The High Commissioner lauded Australia’s successful multiculturalism that embraced diverse cultures, beliefs, and traditions in real terms.

At the end of this more than cordial encounter, the two sides stressed that Malta and Australia already have a strong relationship, which should be reaffirmed at every opportunity because it benefits nationals and communities.

The High Commissioner praised the outstanding contribution of the Maltese community in Australia and encouraged ongoing collaboration through platforms like the United Nations and the Commonwealth, reinforcing the commitment to a rules-based international order and the promotion of shared global values.