A secure, confidential process to raise concerns fairly and independently
You can download the complaint form directly here by clicking the link below and completing it at your convenience.
The role of an ombud is to gather facts in order to understand the merits of a complaint and thereafter to consult the relevant parties to the complaint to either settle the complaint or to make a recommendation to resolve the complaint.
The Ombud will therefore:
Make recommendations in order to:
Resolve the complaint;
Provide redress where necessary to the complainant, and prevent a recurrence of the problem.
An ombud investigation is not a criminal investigation but a non-adversarial administrative inquiry to ensure due process has been observed.
The Ombud does not represent the complainant, the Department of Defence or any other government authority.
The Ombud is an independent, impartial third party that conducts an investigation in a fair and objective manner to ensure an accountable and transparent governance.
An overview of how complaints are received, assessed, investigated, and resolved by the Office of the Military Ombud.
If you believe your matter falls within the mandate of the Military Ombud, you may lodge a complaint securely online or download the official complaint form.
Complainants submit a written complaint to the Office of the Military Ombud using the online form, email, post, or by downloading and completing the official complaint form. All complaints are handled confidentially and securely.
Once received, the complaint is formally registered and acknowledged. A reference number is issued to the complainant, which is used for all future correspondence and tracking.
The Office assesses whether the complaint falls within the mandate of the Military Ombud. This includes determining whether internal SANDF grievance procedures have been followed where required. If the matter falls outside the mandate, guidance is provided on the appropriate channel.
If the complaint falls within jurisdiction, an impartial investigation is conducted. This may include requesting information, reviewing documentation, and engaging relevant SANDF structures.
Based on the investigation, findings are made and recommendations are issued. These recommendations are directed to the appropriate authority, including the Minister of Defence where applicable.
The complainant is formally informed of the outcome and recommendations. While the Office does not enforce decisions, it monitors responses and promotes accountability and fairness.
Our services are available to a wide range of people who may have concerns about SANDF conduct
Conditions of service,
promotions, discipline
Termination, benefits,
unresolved griviences
Official conduct of SANDF members
Reports, publication, FAQs
Please ensure that all relevant information and supporting evidence are included with your complaint to assist the Office of the Military Ombud in assessing and investigating the matter efficiently.
Complaints must be submitted in writing using the prescribed complaint form. You may submit your completed form through the following methods:
Submit your complaint securely through our online portal. This is the fastest and most convenient way to lodge a complaint and allows you to upload supporting documents electronically.
Send your completed complaint form and supporting documents via email. Ensure that all required information is clearly provided to avoid delays in processing.
You may submit your completed complaint form by post. Please ensure that copies of all relevant supporting documents are included and that sufficient time is allowed for delivery.
Deliver your completed complaint form in person at the Office of the Military Ombud during official working hours. Our staff will receive and register your complaint upon submission.
The Office of the Military Ombud is an independent institution established to investigate complaints against the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and to ensure that such complaints are resolved in a fair, economical and expeditious manner, in line with the Military Ombud Act.
