Who is the usher of the black rod?

The Usher of the Black Rod is a parliamentary officer in the Senate. They are one of the few people, other than senators, who work in the chamber.

The duties of the Usher of the Black Rod are conducted both within the chamber and the Department of the Senate.

The Usher of the Black Rod has several responsibilities within the chamber, including:

• escorting the President into and out of the chamber, while carrying the Black Rod.
• recording the attendance of senators.
• standing guard during a division vote when all doors are locked.
• playing an important role in ceremonial occasions, such as the opening of Parliament.

When not in the chamber, the Usher of the Black Rod works from an office in the Department of the Senate and has several responsibilities, including:

• organising office accommodation and supplies for senators and staff.
• maintaining security in the Senate areas of Parliament House.
• organising special ceremonial occasions, such as the opening of Parliament.