Does the leader of the opposition have to recite an oath of office (as leader of opposition) over and above his/her oath as MP?

Thanks for your question, Laurie. 

The Leader of the Opposition does not recite an oath or affirmation that is specific to their role as leader. 

Section 42 of the Australian Constitution requires senators and members of the House of Representatives to affirm their allegiance to the Crown. All are required to ‘make and subscribe’ (sign) an oath or affirmation. The same oath and affirmation have been used since Federation and can only be changed by a referendum. Senators and members can decide whether they would like to swear the oath or the affirmation.

OATH

I, ……………, do swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Her heirs and successors according to law. SO HELP ME GOD!

AFFIRMATION

I, ………………., do solemnly and sincerely affirm and declare that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Her heirs and successors according to law.

A man standing and speaking in a green room. His hands are placed on an ornate box. Men and women sit watching him.

The Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives.

DPS Auspic

The Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives.

A man standing and speaking in a green room. His hands are placed on an ornate box. Men and women sit watching him.

DPS Auspic

Description

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

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.