Reading the Final Report
The Final Report is a substantial document that includes the Royal Commission’s findings and recommendations.
Here are some suggestions that may help you in reading the Final Report.
The Final Report includes many quotes and examples from participants who have shared their experiences with the Royal Commission. Some of these quotes are graphic, confronting or disturbing, and may leave you feeling a range of strong emotions.
For some readers, the Final Report may not be what you were expecting. It may resonate with your experience, or it may not. You may agree with some of the recommendations and not agree with others.
It is important to be mindful of the impacts of reading the Final Report on your own wellbeing and you can make choices about when and how you read it.
There are some practical suggestions that might assist you read the Final Report:
- Choose chapters or sections from the Final Report that most interest you. The Executive Summary may provide a useful overview and the Contents page can help you navigate some of the themes and topics.
- Keep in mind the purpose and Terms of Reference of the Royal Commission when reading the Final Report.
- You can choose to read the Final Report at a time that you have space to process the information and any impact it has upon you. It can be helpful to make sure you have supports around you, such as trusted people that you can discuss the Final Report.
- Consider taking breaks from reading and include some physical activity.
- It may be helpful to read it with others and discuss your responses together.
- Remember you can seek support from services and professionals you trust that understand the issues raised in the Final Report.
- See the Royal Commission website for a range of support services and resources.