Does everyone have to speak in Parliament?

A key part of being a senator or member of the House of Representatives is giving speeches and debating bills – proposed laws. But not all senators and members speak on every issue. Even if they choose not to give a speech, they are given the opportunity to raise issues which matter most to them and the people they represent.

As there are many bills debated each year—more than 120—senators and members prioritise speaking on the bills they consider the most relevant.

If a bill is particularly complex or controversial, there may be many senators and members who wish to speak, so it can take some time to debate the bill. There may be other bills with only a few speakers which means these bills can be debated and voted upon quickly.

A member of the House of Representatives stands at a desk with his hands on a lectern. Other members sit listening at from desks.

A member of the opposition speaking in the House of Representatives.

DPS Auspic

A member of the opposition speaking in the House of Representatives.

A member of the House of Representatives stands at a desk with his hands on a lectern. Other members sit listening at from desks.

DPS Auspic

Description

A member of the House of Representatives makes a speech in the House. They are standing amongst members of their party. They are sitting in the seats on the left side of the House of Representatives where the opposition sit. The opposition is the largest party or coalition of parties that does not have the support of the majority of members in the House of Representatives.