This research paper examines the operation of the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1995 (Tas) and section 194K of the Evidence Act 2001 (Tas), focusing on the need for any extension of the powers of a Commission of Inquiry. 

It considers statutory limitations identified by the Commission of Inquiry into the Tasmanian Government's Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Institutional Settings and assesses the appropriateness of sections 18 and 19 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1995 (Tas) and section 194K of the Evidence Act 2001 (Tas) based on the Commission's practical experience.

The report makes 14 recommendations for reform, covering:

• procedural fairness
• client legal privilege and other privilege
• closed hearings and restrictions on reporting, and
• other matters.