News from our Parliament
Keep up-to-date with the latest news from our Parliament. Read straightforward explanations of bills, committee inquiries, and events in the Senate and House of Representatives, and around Parliament House.
16
October
2019
Farewell Senator Sinodinos
Senator the Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO made a valedictory—farewell—statement before retiring from Parliament. He leaves to take up a post as Australia’s ambassador to the United States.
16
October
2019
Senator Henderson’s second first speech
Senator the Hon Sarah Henderson delivered her first speech to the Senate. Senator Henderson was previously the Member for Corangamite in the House of Representatives.
15
October
2019
My First Speech winners speak in Parliament
The 3 winners of the My First Speech competition presented their speeches in Parliament House.
14
October
2019
Age of criminal responsibility
The age at which a child can be held responsible for criminal acts could be raised from 10 to 14 if a private member’s bill which has been introduced into the House of Representatives passes the Parliament.
19
September
2019
First speeches
More first speeches were presented to Parliament. In this speech, members of parliament may talk about their background and the people they represent, and discuss issues—local, national or global—that they are concerned about.