The Appeals Secretariat helps ensure Albertans receive a fair, impartial and independent review of decisions about their financial benefits from several government departments. The Appeals Secretariat does this by working closely with 31 Citizens’ Appeal Panels across Alberta. Citizens’ Appeal Panels are independent committees made up of Albertans appointed by the Ministers of Alberta Employment and Immigration, and Alberta Seniors and Community Supports. The Panels hear evidence from the parties involved and have the authority to confirm, reverse or vary a decision of the department.  The hearing is an informal legal process.

In addition to providing support to the Citizens' Appeal Panels, the Appeals Secretariat also provides:

• support to the three Dependent Adult Appeal Panels based in Calgary, Edmonton and Grande Prairie
   
• information and assistance to the public and Alberta Employment, Immigration and Industry department staff