The Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements will deliver its findings on October 28 after being granted a two-month extension.

The original reporting date for the investigation, which was established in February after summer’s destructive bushfires, was August 31.

“This short extension will enable the royal commission to complete its inquiry and provide a comprehensive report to government,” a statement says.

The inquiry is examining co-ordination and accountability arrangements, preparedness for and response to disasters, recovery, and ways to improve resilience and adapt to a changing climate.

It has already conducted 25 days of hearings with appearances by 226 witnesses, 1772 submissions and 171 responses to its issues papers.