Gabriele Strele was elected by the Parliament of the Land Vorarlberg as new Ombudswoman and took up office on 30 October 2009 following Dr. Felix Dünser who returned after his non-renewable six year term to the judiciary.
Gabriele Strele previously worked in the field of adult education and in private law practise. She has completed training as a mediator and is Vice President of the Austrian Family Association. Gabriele Strele earned a law degree from the University of Innsbruck.
Ombudswoman Strele is now responsible for complaints relating to the administration of the country and communities within Vorarlberg. In addition she acts as Treasurer of the European Ombudsman Institute in Innsbruck.