What is a non-elected officer and are they important?
The Clerk of the House of Representatives
DPS Auspic
The Clerk of the House of Representatives
DPS Auspic
Description
The Clerk, wearing a traditional black gown, leans in to speak to the Speaker of the House of Representatives in his chair. The Clerk usually sits at the desk in front of the Speaker where they keep sand timers and books including the standing orders – rules – of 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.
Thank you for your question, Lee.
‘Non-elected officer’ is a term used to describe parliamentary staff, or officers, who work in Parliament House but who aren’t elected representatives. These officers have a range of important responsibilities and duties to make sure the Australian Parliament can do its work. Some non-elected officers are:
- Clerks, who advise on parliamentary rules and procedures
- the Usher of the Black Rod, who helps manage the Senate
- the Serjeant-at-Arms, who helps manage the House of Representatives
- Hansard editors, who transcribe everything said in Parliament
- committee secretaries, who organise inquiries and public hearings
- researchers, who help members of parliament find reliable information
These parliamentary officers help make sure Parliament runs smoothly and that senators and members have the support they need to do their jobs.