Royal Commissioner: One or more commissioners may be appointed to conduct the inquiry and prepare the final report. Commissioners usually have legal qualifications or extensive experience in the subject matter of the royal commission.

Counsel assisting: One or more experienced lawyers will usually be appointed to present evidence, question witnesses and make submissions to the royal commission. Counsel assisting do not represent any particular person, organisation or viewpoint and must remain impartial.

Other lawyers: Sometimes other lawyers will also present evidence, question witnesses and make submissions on behalf of their clients who may be involved in or affected by the royal commission.

Royal commission staff: A number of administrative and secretarial staff support the royal commission’s proceedings and functions.

Witnesses: People with a particular interest in or knowledge of the subject matter of the royal commission may ask to give evidence before the royal commission or may be compelled. If their evidence is confidential or sensitive, hearings may be conducted in private. In rare instances, witnesses may be able to speak with the royal commissioner or commissioners individually.

Experts: Experts with qualifications or experience in the subject of the royal commission are usually invited to provide written submissions or appear before the commission at public hearings.

Members of the public: Royal commission hearings are usually open to the public meaning that members of the public may attend in person or watch online if hearings are broadcast.