What is a Hansard reporter?

Hansard reporters are usually called Hansard editors. They provide a transcript – written record – of what is said in the Senate, House of Representatives, Federation Chamber and committee hearings.

The audio of everything that is said in these meetings is recorded and then transcribed by Hansard editors with the help of software. Hansard editors also sit in on the meetings so they can note any actions taken, such as the result of votes and written statements tabled in – presented to – Parliament.

The edited transcript called Hansard is available on the Parliament House website, usually within 3 hours of Parliament finishing for the day.