The number of complaints going to the Office of the Ombudsman is soaring to record heights.

Its annual report finds more than eight thousand Official information complaints - a 30 percent increase.

The office also received 278 protected disclosures under the whistleblower law - up 26 percent.

Chief Ombudsman John Allen told Mike Hosking OIAs are an attractive option for people trying to raise issues with the Government.

He says public confidence in Government generally is on the decline and people are under a huge amount of pressure with cost of living. 

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