A Royal Commission is a type of official inquiry that is established by the Governor-General of the Commonwealth or the Governor of a State. It is empowered to investigate issues of public concern, and to gather information from a range of sources. Letters Patent are issued to the Royal Commissioners, which contain the terms of reference that define the scope of the inquiry.
The Powers of a Royal Commission
A Royal Commission is given special powers, which include the ability to compel the production of documents and information, and the authority to require witnesses to give evidence at public hearings. The Royal Commission can gather information in various ways, such as through submissions from interested parties, research projects, public hearings, and private sessions.
Guidelines about the conduct of a Royal Commission
The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (the Royal Commission) has published a Practice Guideline that outlines the conduct of the inquiry. The Guideline should be read together with the Royal Commissions Act and the relevant State Acts. The Guideline provides general guidance on the practice and procedures of the Royal Commission, while other practice guidelines deal with more specific aspects of its functions.
Communicating with the Royal Commission
If you would like to communicate with the Royal Commission, you can call them on 1800 517 199 (between 9:00am-5:00pm AEDT Monday-Friday except on public holidays), email them at DRCenquiries@royalcommission.gov.au, or write to them at GPO Box 1422 Brisbane QLD 4001. The Royal Commission will communicate with you in a way that suits you best, and they will provide any necessary support to assist you with communicating with them.
Supports for Communication
If you require any support to communicate with the Royal Commission, such as an interpreter or specialized communication support, please let them know. The Royal Commission is committed to providing you with the necessary assistance and support to enable effective communication. You may also request to have a support person included in your communications with the Royal Commission.
