Commissioners of Inquiry for Environment and Planning are independently appointed by the Governor-in-Council under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. They conduct Commissions of Inquiry and other forms of Inquiry directed by the Minister for Planning into a range of environmental, planning and development issues under that Act.

They also conduct Inquiries into conservation matters under the Heritage Act 1977. All Inquiries are held in public. The Commissioners make findings and recommendations in written reports to the Minister. Commission of Inquiry reports are openly available to the public under NSW planning legislation.

The publication Commissioners of Inquiry for Environment and Planning - How They Work is available from the Office or by clicking the following link:

• Undertakes environmental, planning and conservation assessment of issues prior to State government decisions.
• Affords equal opportunity for all interested parties to make submissions.
• Enables thorough canvassing of all relevant issues in a public forum.
• Provides independent advice in a publicly available written report to the Minister for Planning.

• To undertake Inquiries commissioned by the Minister for Planning consistent with legislative requirements, public participation objectives and the principles of natural justice and fairness.
• To assess and weigh evidence and to make findings and recommendations in a report to the Minister for Planning.
• To provide administrative procedures which enable maximum involvement of citizens, groups, specialists and government agencies.
• To ensure Inquiries are commenced, conducted and reported in a minimum time while having proper regard to the issues.
• To conduct Inquiries in a cost-effective manner.