The Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements will commence its proceedings with an online Ceremonial Hearing from 8am on Thursday 16 April 2020.
The e-hearing will be live-streamed to allow a wide audience to watch the proceedings while continuing to observe Coronavirus (COVID-19) related social distancing requirements.
Additionally, to ensure the Commission maximises the opportunity for people to contribute to the Royal Commission in the current environment, the Commissioners have extended the public submissions period by a further two weeks until 28 April 2020.
Sometimes known as the 'Bushfire Royal Commission' it was established in response to the extreme bushfire season of 2019-20 which resulted in loss of life, property and wildlife; and environmental destruction.
The Commission will examine coordination, preparedness for, response to, and recovery from disasters as well as improving resilience and adapting to changing climatic conditions and mitigating the impact of natural disasters.
The inquiry will also consider the legal framework for Commonwealth involvement in responding to national emergencies.
Commissioners remain committed to providing advice to government ahead of the 2020-21 bushfire season with further hearings planned.
All hearings will be conducted in accordance with the Australian Government Department of Health's guidelines on (COVID-19).
To watch next week's Ceremonial Hearing visit naturaldisaster.royalcommission.gov.au
Transcripts will also be made available after the hearing.
