Vic: Bushfire victims can ask to be heard at Royal Commission
20 Apr 2009 12:01 PM
The head of the royal commission into Victoria's Black Saturday bushfires has sought to ease concerns that many survivors won't be allowed to have their say.
Justice BERNARD TEAGUE says anyone who hasn't been invited to give evidence can lodge a compelling written submission to ensure they're heard.
He says the commission's job is to identify failures and mismanagement to prevent a similar catastrophe .. not to attribute blame .. and the formal hearings starting next month will be broadcast on the internet for all to see.
The commission's first official day of business began today with a directions hearing in the Victorian County Court.
The court's been told by counsel assisting the commission .. JACK RUSH QC .. the fires were too fast and too intense for people to reasonably decide whether to stay or go.
