[no bill text published] Warrant powers allowing the National Commissioner to compel documents and testimony
National Commission for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People Bill 2026
1st House
2nd House
Law
Links to official parliament websites
Effects of this bill
If this bill passes, it means that:
The National Commissioner can force people to provide documents; they can also require individuals to appear and answer questions.
People have an excuse to refuse these requests if they have a reasonable reason.
Criminal offence for using or disclosing protected information.
The National Commissioner can share information with the Australian Federal Police or state and territory police forces.
The National Commissioner must be an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person with significant community experience.
Legislative instruments cannot create new offences; they cannot create civil penalties or powers of arrest and detention.
Delegates of the National Commissioner must follow written directions from the Minister.
The law now applies to external Territories.