Does the Federation Chamber have a part in the law making process?

Thanks for your question, Edward!

Yes, the Federation Chamber does have a part in the law-making process, although divisions – formal recorded votes – cannot be taken there. The Federation Chamber is the second meeting place of the House of Representatives and can operate at the same time as the House. All members of the House can attend the Federation Chamber. It was established to streamline the House's busy schedule and to increase the time available for conducting non-controversial business.

Its work includes:

  • debating bills – proposed laws – on which there is expected to be agreement
  • debating committee reports
  • conducting private members' business, which allows members to speak on any topic, particularly matters of interest to their electorate.

All decisions made in the Federation Chamber need to be confirmed by the House of Representatives.

A wood-panelled room with 2 rows of wooden desks in a horseshoe shape. An Australian flag is in the foreground.

Federation Chamber

David Foote/DPS Auspic

Federation Chamber

A wood-panelled room with 2 rows of wooden desks in a horseshoe shape. An Australian flag is in the foreground.

David Foote/DPS Auspic

Description

The Federation Chamber is the second meeting place of the Australian House of Representatives. It is a wood-panelled meeting room with wooden desks and leather chairs arranged in a U-shape. Seating is provided for 38 members. There are microphones and cameras throughout the room to record speeches when the Federation Chamber is in session. 

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