Setting standards in the Chamber

THE House Standing Committee on Procedure has launched a new inquiry reviewing parliamentary practice and procedure to implement recommendations 10 and 27 of the Set the standard report by Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins.

These recommendations related to eliminating sexist, exclusionary or discriminatory language, behaviour and practices in the chamber and improving safety and respect, as well as looking at the sitting calendar and order of business.

"The Jenkins review recommended that the House consider whether there were opportunities to improve both the standing orders and any unwritten conventions in the Chamber," committee chair Shayne Neumann said. "The committee is interested in feedback and is now welcoming submissions to the inquiry."

However, matters such as codes of conduct and behaviour outside the Chamber are covered by other recommendations and will not be considered as part of this inquiry.

"The focus of our inquiry is on the standing orders and practices and procedures in the Chamber — we are not looking at the development of codes of conduct, for example," Mr Neumann said. "A joint select committee has been established to consider codes of conduct."

To read the full terms of reference or make a submission, visit the inquiry page.

 

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