The PTO began operating in April 2004, as the Public Transport Industry Ombudsman (Victoria) Limited. In 2006, our name was changed to the Public Transport Ombudsman Limited.
From April 2004, the PTO was operated by Acting Ombudsman Charles Bare, with a temporary staff provided by the State Government. James Hartnett was appointed as the first Public Transport Industry Ombudsman in July 2004 and continued in the role until February 2008. Simon Cohen was then appointed as the second Public Transport Ombudsman in February 2008 and continued in the role until August 2010, after accepting the role of Telecommunication Industry Ombudsman. In August 2010, Janine Young was appointed as the third and current Public Transport Ombudsman.
The PTO has continued to grow and develop since 2004, in receiving, investigating and resolving complaints and in pursuing best practice dispute resolution. We have seen large changes to the public transport industry, particularly through the re-franchising process and we will continue to adapt to the changing needs of the industry and those consumers affected by it.
