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Frequently asked questions for witnesses appearing before Senate committees

Committee hearing

 

What is a Senate or Joint committee?

What happens at a committee hearing?

Where will the hearing take place?

Who will be called as a witness?

Are committee hearings public or confidential?

Will media be present?

Is there a dress code?

Why have I been asked to attend as part of a panel/round table of witnesses?

What if I have been invited to appear at a hearing but I do not want to give evidence?

I would like to give evidence but cannot attend in person. What other options do I have?

Can I bring someone else along to appear with me as a witness?

Can I have legal counsel accompany me to a hearing?

Can a friend or family member accompany me to a public hearing?

Can I listen to other people's evidence?

Can I make a presentation or show a video?

Can I give the committee additional information, for example documents, maps or photographs, to support my evidence?

What sort of questions will the committee ask me?

What if I can't answer a question?

What if I don't want to answer a question?

Can I give evidence confidentially?

If I make a mistake, can I correct it later?

How do I address committee members?

Who is on the committee?

Which committee members will be present?

Who else will be present at the hearing?

I have a disability. Will that be accommodated at the hearing?

English is not my first language. Can I use an interpreter?

What is parliamentary privilege?

If I criticise somebody, can I be sued for defamation?

I want to attend as a witness but somebody is trying to stop me doing so. What should I do?

Will I have to make an oath or affirmation?

Is there any extra guidance for public servants appearing as witnesses?

How do I get into Parliament House (Canberra)?

Where do I park my car at Parliament House (Canberra)?

What happens after the hearing?

Who should I talk to if I have a question?

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