Royal Commissions Legislation Amendment (Protections for Providing Information) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Opened the debate

Rowland argued that royal commissions require strong powers to investigate national security matters effectively. Rowland stated that current secrecy laws create uncertainty that deters potential witnesses from sharing essential information. The bill creates a safe pathway for disclosing sensitive data by providing immunity from prosecution when information is shared via approved arrangements. Rowland emphasized that these protections ensure witnesses can assist commissions without fear of criminal liability for breaching secrecy provisions.

Government response

Rowland explained that the bill amends the Royal Commissions Act to prevent secrecy provisions from being used as an excuse to refuse evidence. Rowland noted that the legislation introduces a new defence in the Criminal Code for communicating information to royal commissions, aligning them with courts and tribunals. The Attorney-General highlighted that the framework balances national security needs with the necessity for candid testimony. Rowland commended the bill for establishing clear, enduring protections for witnesses providing information in good faith.