VPRS 16528 Community Consultations - Audio-Visual Footage

This series consists of audio-visual recordings of community consultations undertaken by the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission. They are identified by location, date and session. Community Consultations were conducted in fire-affected areas throughout March and April 2009. Attendance at the meetings was limited to residents of the areas, although media outlets were allowed in for the opening remarks by the Chairman. Attendees discussed issues in small groups and then reported back to the larger group in a facilitated discussion. The meetings were not considered formal hearings, and the information obtained was not formal evidence. The Commission noted in its final report, however, that the information was of great value and helped the Commission determine areas for further research and investigation before starting its formal hearings. Attendees were advised that the discussions would be recorded for future reference. Recordings were intended to provide a memory aid for the Commissioners and could also be used to identify potential lay witnesses. More information about the purpose and conduct of the meetings can be found in the Commission’s interim and final reports (VPRS 16295).