On 25 May 1938, a Royal Commission was established to:

1. Inquire into, consider and report generally upon the administration by the Municipal Council of the City of Perth of-
(a) the Health Act, 1911, and the amendments thereof, and the regulations and by-laws made thereunder and in force relating to matters of health and sanitation, and in particular-
(i) in regard to housing and to allegations of slum conditions existing in the City of Perth; and
(ii) in regard to the handling of foodstuffs;
(b) its building by-laws; and
(c) its by-Jaws and regulations relating to houses of ill-fame, and to public nuisances.

2. To consider and make any recommendations in regard to the amendment of the laws, regulations and by- laws relating to any of the subject matters hereinbefore mentioned and in regard to any other matters which in the opinion of the Commission are justified or warranted by any of the inquiries made under paragraph 1 hereof.