How do members of parliament discuss an issue? Is it like a debate?

A woman in a grey jacket is standing at a desk in a red room. She is speaking. Other women sit on benches around her, listening to her speak.

A senator speaking in the Senate.

DPS Auspic

A senator speaking in the Senate.

A woman in a grey jacket is standing at a desk in a red room. She is speaking. Other women sit on benches around her, listening to her speak.

DPS Auspic

Description

A senator speaking in the Senate.

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.

Thanks for your question, Abbie. 

Yes, the discussions in the Parliament are called debates. One of the main roles of the Senate and the House of Representatives is to debate bills – ideas for laws – and discuss important issues facing Australians. 

The House of Representatives and Senate have rules – standing orders – about how debates are conducted, including time limits on speaking. These rules ensure every member or senator gets the chance to have a say in debates.