What is a royal commission?

A royal commission is an investigation, independent of government, into a matter of public importance. Its scope is determined by its terms of reference, which set out the precise matters the commission will investigate. Royal commissions are not common and the establishment of a royal commission into a particular area of concern signifies its great public importance.

In Australia, royal commissions may be established on a federal level to investigate matters of national importance or by an individual state or territory on any matter. On a federal level, royal commissions are governed by the Royal Commissions Act 1902 (Cth). In South Australia, the Royal Commissions Act 1917 (SA) facilitates inquiries by royal commissions.

Both state and federal legislation give royal commissions broad powers to investigate the matters set out in the terms of reference. Royal commissions can compel the production of documents or the appearance of witnesses before the commission and can fine or imprison people who do not comply.