Opened the debate
Chisholm argued that Royal Commissions require strong powers and immunities to effectively investigate matters of national importance, particularly regarding national security and law enforcement. Chisholm stated that existing secrecy provisions create uncertainty and deter potential witnesses from sharing essential information due to fear of criminal penalties. Chisholm explained that the bill amends the Royal Commissions Act to provide immunity from secrecy offences when information is disclosed under approved arrangements between the Commission and the Commonwealth. Chisholm noted that the legislation also prevents disclosed information and the fact of disclosure from being used as evidence against the provider in civil or criminal proceedings. Chisholm emphasised that the bill ensures secrecy provisions cannot be used as a reasonable excuse to refuse compliance with evidence requirements.