Leader of the Opposition

Get to know the role of the Leader of the Opposition with this fact sheet. Learn how the Leader of the Opposition is chosen and their responsibilities.

What will I learn?

  • The Leader of the Opposition is the chief spokesperson for the opposition.
  • They are selected by the second largest party in the House of Representatives.
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Glossary words

Opposition, shadow Cabinet

Curriculum alignment

Year 6 ACHASSK143

Who is the Leader of the Opposition?

The Leader of the Opposition is a member of parliament who is in charge of  the opposition – the largest party, or coalition of parties, that is not in government. The Leader of the Opposition is chosen by members of their party. By convention – tradition – the Leader of the Opposition is a member of the House of Representatives.

Responsibilities

The Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives.

The Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives.

DPS Auspic

The Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives.

The Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives.

DPS Auspic

Description

The Leader of the Opposition, Mr Peter Dutton MP, speaking from the Despatch box in the House of Representatives.

Copyright information

Permission should be sought from DPS AUSPIC for third-party or commercial uses of this image. To contact DPS AUSPIC email: auspic@aph.gov.au or phone: 02 6277 3342.

The Leader of the Opposition is responsible for managing the way the opposition develops policies, scrutinises the government and acts in Parliament. Their duties include:

  • acting as the main opposition spokesperson
  • selecting members of their party or coalition to be shadow ministers
  • running party meetings and shadow Cabinet meetings where the opposition discusses policies and examines bills – ideas for new laws
  • leading the opposition’s federal election campaigns
  • presenting the opposition as an alternative government.

In the House of Representatives

The Leader of the Opposition sits at the central table opposite the Prime Minister. If the Prime Minister makes a speech to the House, the Leader of the Opposition usually has the right of reply, which means being given equal time to speak on the issue.