Fisheries Management Act 1991

In a proceeding before the Panel:

the procedure of the Panel is, subject to this Act and the regulations, within the discretion of the Panel; and

the proceeding is to be conducted with as little formality and technicality, and as quickly, as the requirements of this Act and a proper consideration of the matter before the Panel permit; and

the Panel is not bound by rules of evidence but may inform itself on any matter in any way it thinks appropriate.

For the purposes of subsection (1), directions as to the procedure to be followed at or in connection with the hearing of an application may be given:

where the hearing has not commenced—by the Principal Member or by a member authorised by the Principal Member to give directions for the purposes of this paragraph; and

where the hearing of the application has commenced—by the Principal Member or by any other member authorised by the Principal Member to give such directions.

A direction may be varied or revoked at any time by any member empowered to give such a direction.

The Principal Member may at any time vary or revoke an authorisation under this section.