DUBBO's fervent campaigner for a royal commission on child sexual abuse is concerned the federal government's rush to set it up before Christmas could lead to tears across the nation.
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Policeman-turned-politician Troy Grant yesterday joined NSW Premier Barry O' Farrell and groups representing victims in expressing disappointment Monday November 26 was the deadline for written submissions on the establishment of the commission.
Announced last week by Prime Minister Julia Gillard, it seeks to discover institutional responses to child sexual abuse.
Mr Grant, the State Member for Dubbo, said he did not understand the brief formal timeframe for community input, given "this could be the most important royal commission in the nation's history".
"It could compromise the commission's potential to deliver real change," he said.
Earlier this week the government released a consultation paper to "inform the terms of reference" for the commission.
The November 26 deadline for submissions reflects Ms Gillard's desire to have arrangements for the establishment of the commission in place before the end of 2012, to enable it to begin its public work in early 2013.
"However, the government may continue to accept comments after this date, depending on the number of comments received, and the ability of individuals and organisations to meet this deadline," Attorney General Nicola Roxon and acting federal Minister for Families Brendan O'Connor reported in a statement.
"Over the coming two weeks, the government will also hold a number of consultation meetings with key stakeholders so that organisations that represent survivors of child abuse, community and legal leaders, state and territory governments and religious organisations can have a say."
The consultation paper asks for stakeholder views on the scope of the commission's terms of reference, its form, commissioners, timetable and reporting arrangements.
Mr Grant is suggesting the new commission learn from another.
"My advice would be to follow the structure of the Aboriginal deaths in custody royal commission," he said.
"It would provide excellent guidance."
The MP drew attention to the former commission's use of state-based commissioners who could "cross borders".
Mr Grant, who in his former career led the paedophilia investigation into Catholic priest Vincent Ryan, intends on providing a submission of evidence to the commission.
