Royal commissions (sometimes called commissions of inquiry) have been held in Australia at a federal level since 1902. Royal commissions appointed by the Governor-General operate under the Royal Commissions Act 1902 passed by the Parliament of Australia in 1902. The governments of the states and territories of Australia have also appointed royal commissions, although they are not included in this list unless they were appointed jointly by the Government of Australia and a state or territory government. In 2010, the Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) conducted an inquiry into the operation and provisions of the Royal Commissions Act 1902, investigating possible alternative forms of executive inquiry. The ALRC Report ALRC 111 was tabled (presented for consideration) in Parliament in February 2010, but has not been implemented.

Held in 1900–1920

Held in 1921–1940

Held in 1941–1960

Held in 1961–1980

Held in 1981–2000

Held in 2001–2020

Held since 2021

Footnotes