Hearing behaviour

Everyone attending a Planning Commission hearing is expected to behave respectfully and follow the Chairperson's directions so the hearing can proceed in a fair, orderly and efficient way.

Planning Commission hearings are conducted with as little formality as possible.

Respectful behaviour

The Commission welcomes a range of views.

Participants should listen respectfully to others, even when they disagree, and allow everyone a fair opportunity to speak.

Behaviour expectations

Participants should:

  • follow the Chairperson's directions
  • wait until invited to speak
  • direct comments to the Commission
  • focus on matters relevant to the proposal
  • avoid interrupting other speakers
  • not use offensive, abusive or threatening language.

What happens if behaviour is unacceptable?

The Chairperson is responsible for managing the hearing. If a person's behaviour is disruptive or inappropriate, the Chairperson may give directions, stop the person from speaking, require them to leave the hearing, or disconnect them from a videoconference.