She said the commission won't undertake a forensic investigation about the cause or detail of a particular event.
"We are a different kind of royal commission," Ms Neave said as the hearings opened in Melbourne on Monday.
Improving government and community responses to domestic violence will not be easy, she said.
"The impact of such violence is profound and extends well beyond physical harm," she said.
"Women affected by family violence have difficulties in achieving their full potential as members of the community.
"If they leave the relationship, they may remain at risk of physical harm or constant harassment. They often end up financially insecure with inadequate housing."
The public hearings will explore the ways people experience family violence and the laws, policies, practices and services in Victoria that aim to respond to and prevent it.
Premier Daniel Andrews promised the royal commission in the lead-up to the 2014 state election following the murder of 11-year-old Luke Batty by his father at cricket training.
His mother Rosie's campaign against domestic violence, spurred by the tragedy, led to her being named Australian of the Year in January.
At the time of Luke's death, Mr Andrews said domestic violence was Victoria's most urgent law-and-order emergency.
The royal commission will next hear from counsel assisting the commissioner, Mark Moshinsky SC.
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