What is the crossbench and who sits there?

Thanks for your interesting question, Bjorn.

The crossbench is where independent senators and members, and minor party members sit.

Crossbench senators and members are elected members of parliament and represent their state or territory, or electorate. They take part in debates and can introduce bills – proposed laws – called private member’s or private senator’s bills.

While major party members usually vote together to support or reject an idea, independent and minor party members can make up their own mind as to how they will vote. 

 

Members sit on green benches with desks. They are listening and working on their devices.

Independent and minor party members working in the House of Representatives

DPS Auspic

Independent and minor party members working in the House of Representatives

Members sit on green benches with desks. They are listening and working on their devices.

DPS Auspic

Description

Independent and minor party members speaking to each other, listening, reading or working on their devices 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.