11. Review and dispute resolution

11.1  Internal review

People who make voluntary PIDs can seek internal review of the following decisions made by DCS

• that DCS is not required to deal with the report as a voluntary PID
• to stop dealing with the report because DCS decided it was not a voluntary PID
• to not investigate the serious wrongdoing and not refer the report to another agency
• to cease investigating the serious wrongdoing without either completing the investigation or referring the report to another agency for investigation.

DCS will ensure internal reviews are conducted in compliance with the PID Act.

If you would like to make an application for an internal review, you must apply in writing within 28 days of being informed of DCS decision. The application should state the reasons why you consider DCS decision should not have been made. You may also submit any other relevant material with your application.

11.2  Voluntary dispute resolution

If a dispute arises between DCS and a person who has made a report which is, or may be, a voluntary PID, we may request the NSW Ombudsman to conciliate the dispute. Conciliation is a voluntary process and will only be suitable for disputes where DCS and the reporter of the report are willing to resolve the dispute.