Royal Commissions and Inquiries

Clayton Utz is the go-to firm for Royal Commissions, Commissions of Inquiry, as well as any Parliamentary and public Inquiry. We are trusted by government departments and agencies, corporates, not-for-profit organisations and prominent individuals to deliver in these highly scrutinised and pressurised environments.

Our team combines deep organisational knowledge of the process and practices in such forums, together with proven crisis management expertise, to anticipate, prepare and respond rapidly to issues that arise, including notices to produce documents or information as well as any notice requiring witness statements. 

We have a proven track record of acting for both organisations and individuals, and our collaborative approach ensures we manage legal, financial and reputational interests seamlessly. Our national team brings sector insight and a sophisticated understanding of the legal, political and public policy settings that shape outcomes. 

These forums are high stakes and involve considerable scrutiny – it is not the time for on-the-job learning. Our clients benefit from a team that is experienced, ready to act and familiar with every nuance of the unique processes in these forums.

How we help

Early preparation and rapid mobilisation: we help clients prepare early when possible and can respond quickly and effectively with little notice.

Strategy grounded in public policy: we identify and address the public policy issues driving the inquiry and align legal strategy accordingly, including sensitively and adeptly navigating privilege/public interest immunity claims.

Evidence, discovery and document production: our in-house data intelligence team delivers robust, cost-effective document management and responsive production services, which result in considerable efficiency and reduces costs and delays.

Witness preparation and hearings: we provide practical witness preparation, prepare submissions as well as support appearances and post-hearing engagement drawing on our extensive experience when doing so.

Stakeholder and reputation management: we coordinate legal, media and crisis support, collaborating across internal and external disciplines to manage all impacts.

Influencing outcomes: from shaping terms of reference to advocating for meaningful recommendations, we position clients for achieving optimal outcomes.

End to end risk management: when acting in these forums, we consider issues associated with regulatory compliance, class action defence exposure and dispute strategy at every juncture.

Why Clayton Utz

• The "go-to" firm with a trusted and proven track record across the most complex, high-profile Royal Commissions, Commissions of Inquiry as well as Parliamentary and other Inquiries in Australia.

• National breadth and deep bench strength ensure best practice is shared across jurisdictions.

• Responsive, cost-effective and ready to act, with a team that is familiar with every aspect of inquiry processes and practices.

• Recognised for our ability to identify and address public policy issues and for our crisis management expertise.

• Trusted by governments, regulators, boards and individuals in the most scrutinised environments.

Recognition

Clayton Utz is widely recognised for its strength in complex and sensitive matters involving government, regulators and major institutions.

- Chambers Asia-Pacific, Government / Dispute Resolution

• Band 1 - Government, Chambers Asia-Pacific (2026) Recognising market leadership in advising government and public sector clients on complex, sensitive and contentious matters, including inquiries and investigations.

Multiple individual lawyer rankings in Government and Dispute Resolution, Chambers Asia-Pacific, reflecting senior capability and bench strength relevant to Royal Commissions and public inquiries.