L

law

Rules that help manage our society and define how people and organisations are expected to behave.
More information: Sources of law

Leader of the Government in the Senate

A government senator who is chosen by their party or coalition of parties to lead them in the Senate.

Leader of the House

A minister appointed by the government to manage its business in the House of Representatives.

Leader of the Opposition

A member of parliament who leads the largest party or coalition of parties that is not in government.
More information: Leader of the Opposition

Leader of the Opposition in the Senate

An opposition senator who is chosen by their party or coalition of parties to lead them in the Senate.

leave

Permission given to a member of parliament by other members of parliament present in the Senate or the House of Representatives to do something which is not usually allowed in the standing orders.

legislation

A law or proposed law.

legislative power

(see also separation of powers)
The power of the Parliament to make and amend laws.

legislature

The law-making body of a country or state.

lobby

To approach the government, the opposition or other members of parliament, to get support for a cause or to influence them to change policy or actions.

local government

The level of government that looks after local issues, such as rubbish collection, pet control and local roads.
More information: The responsibilities of the three levels of government

long title

The full title of a bill which describes what the bill is about.

lower house

The name sometimes given to the House of Representatives.