Royal Commission

Royal Commissions

An advisory body appointed by the government to complete a public inquiry into issues of great importance.

Processes

* Consultation research and background papers
* Consultation Sessions
* Public Hearings

Consultation research and background papers

Consultation papers may be provided to provide information to interested parties and community and form the basis for discussions and submissions.



* Consultation papers are prepared to explain the concerns examined by the royal commission. It encouraged written submissions from any individual or organisation who can provide information on such issues.

Consultation Sessions

Consultation Sessions may be conducted to gain input, views and opinions from a range of individuals and organisations that have an interest in the area being investigated

Public Hearings

Public Hearings may be held to gather evidence relevant to the terms of reference. Royal commission have extensive power to gather evidence at their hearings.



* For example, they can summon or compel people to attend, give evidence under oath and be subject to cross examinations or they’ll be faced with sanctions such as a fine or imprisonment.

Strengths of Royal Commissions

* Government is more likely to act upon the findings of royal commission and can use findings and recommendations of royal commissions to justify the need to make changes in law and government policy
* Royal Commission have unique and coercive power of investigation, such as the power to summon witnesses to give evidence or be cross examined or to provide documents.
* Royal Commissions can seek expert advice from a range of sources such as representative of an organisation or individuals.

Weaknesses of Royal Commissions

* Royal commissions may lose credibility in situations where the government chooses not to include any areas that might be potentially politically damaging for them or call the royal commission on a matter to win voter support.
* Royal commissions investigation can be time consuming and costly. On average they take 2 to 4 years and are expensive as some can cost as much as $60 million.
* The government has no obligation to act upon the findings and recommendations of a royal commission.