How long do commissions and inquiries last?

• Commissions are usually set up for a specific purpose and for a specified timeframe.
• The letters patent (a published, written order) will list important dates such as the date:
  • for the completion of an interim report;
  • for the completion of the final report; and
  • for completing the investigation.
• The commission can request an extension of time if it needs it.
• The government can give an extension of time even when the commission has not asked for it.
• Large commissions may take several years to complete.          
  • The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sex Abuse started in January 2013. It has been extended until December 2017 for the delivery of the final report.