How often do people meet in the Senate and House of Representatives?

Thanks for your question, Miranda.

The Senate and House of Representatives meet for around 14 to 20 weeks each year to represent the views of Australians and discuss matters of national and international importance. These meetings are called ‘sittings’ and are usually held from Monday to Thursday in blocks of 1 or 2 weeks. Sitting days last for an average of 11 hours. Sometimes, however, they continue much longer, lasting late into the night.

The Senate and House set their own sitting calendar which outlines when meetings will take place throughout the year. The Senate and House do not always meet at the same time. The Senate tends to sit slightly less than the House because it also holds estimates hearings, which are separate from regular sittings. In election years, there are fewer sitting weeks because Parliament pauses for the election to take place. Federal elections happen at least every 3 years.

Each sitting day follows a regular timetable, with time set aside for items such as government business, statements and Question Time.

When Parliament is not sitting, senators return to their state or territory and members return to their electorates. This gives them time to meet with the people they represent, attend local events and stay in touch with the issues that matter in their area.