The Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements will hold a Ceremonial Hearing in Canberra on 31 March 2020 ahead of formal hearings in April.
In accordance with the Australian Government Department of Health’s advice regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19), access to the Ceremonial Hearing will be limited – however the hearing will be live streamed to allow a wide audience to observe the proceedings while minimising the risk of exposure. Transcripts will also be made available.
Following the Ceremonial Hearing, the Commission currently plans to hold hearings in:
- South East Queensland April 2020
- East Gippsland, Victoria May 2020
- South Coast, New South Wales June 2020
- North Coast, New South Wales June 2020
- Canberra, ACT July 2020.
The Commission will continue to monitor and assess the risk of public attendance in line with public health advice.
Throughout March the Commissioners have visited a number of fire affected communities to observe firsthand the effects of the recent bushfires.
These informal visits have allowed the Commissioners to speak to small groups representative of fire affected communities, providing background and context that has helped inform the Commission’s thinking and direction of inquiry ahead of formal hearings.
The Royal Commission is also receiving submissions.
Individuals, community groups and the broader community can make submissions on the 2019-20 bushfire season via the Commission’s website or by phoning 1800 909 826.
Submissions will close on Friday, 3 April 2020.
The Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements was established in response to the extreme bushfire season of 2019-20 which resulted in loss of life, property and wildlife; and environmental destruction.
Sometimes known as the ‘Bushfire Royal Commission’ it will examine how Australia is prepared and coordinated with the states and territories to respond to bushfires and other natural disasters as well as mitigation and recovery.
