What is a 'white paper'?

A ‘white paper’ is a document produced by the Australian Government on a specific topic such as defence or foreign affairs. They tend to focus on government policies and can be used to propose future laws. 

A parliamentary committee in action at Australian Parliament House. Observers are watching the main discussion.

A parliamentary committee in action at Australian Parliament House

DPS Auspic

A parliamentary committee in action at Australian Parliament House

A parliamentary committee in action at Australian Parliament House. Observers are watching the main discussion.

DPS Auspic

Description

This photo shows a committee hearing taking place at Australian Parliament House. Members of parliament and people giving evidence to the committee are sitting at desks set up in a large rectangle. They each have a microphone to broadcast and record what they are saying. At the desks, most people have stacks of papers and some have laptops. There are people sitting in 2 rows of chairs set to the side of the rectangle of desks. These people are observing what is happening in the hearing. Most committee hearings are held in public and anyone is welcome to come and listen.