"SOMETIMES it's the first time they have spoken to anyone about their story and they want to know that their story has been heard."
The words of Danielle Grant-Cross, a member of the Royal Commission "hub" staff, ring true for the thousands of people who have made a submission to the commission.
So far the royal commission has received 5258 submissions. Its staff have assisted 3000-plus callers to make a submission.
The submissions by state and territory are: NSW 29 per cent, Victoria 27 per cent, Queensland 22 per cent, South Australia 9 per cent, Western Australia 7 per cent, ACT 3 per cent, Tasmania 2.5 per cent, Northern Territory 0.5 per cent.
And it's not too late to tell your story.
Ms Grant-Cross, the royal commission's director of counselling, enquiry and correspondence, describes the hub staff as "a very important link with the community".
"It's important that people can call and speak to listeners who can empathise," she said.
"It can be very distressing for the caller to speak about their own or their family member or friend's personal story.
"It's crucially important that the information recorded reflects the individual's voice and that they know their story will inform future reports and recommendations of the royal commission."
Ms Grant-Cross said hub staff members were in a position where they were able to immediately share their knowledge and information with other teams in the commission, and identify emerging themes "in real time".
"The hub really does capture the voice of the people and in essence reflects what the community are saying."
Trained operators are available through the royal commission information line to offer information and support for callers who are distressed, and to help callers make a submission.
Royal Commission information line: 1800-960-711 8am-6.30pm (ACST) Monday-Friday except for public holidays. Assistance is available for people who are visually impaired; and there is access to an interpreter service.
For details on making a submission, click HERE