The past fortnight stood in stark contrast to previous years in which the Morrison government regarded Parliament as something to be endured rather than turned to its advantage.
There was a wonderful moment on Tuesday last week when the Parliament sat for the first time since the election and all the MPs and Senators were sworn in.
Which was on show straight after the swearing-in when the next item of business was the triennial charade of the Parliament electing the Speaker. Having said that, Dick, during his first fortnight in the job, performed admirably, more so given his relatively short time in Parliament. He gave every indication he will honour the legacy of Liberal Tony Smith, universally regarded as the best Speaker of the modern era.In the same vein, the Albanese government had as good a start to Parliament as anyone can remember, in terms of both theatrics and substance. Both are important.
The past fortnight has witnessed a return to a much more orderly and substantial state of affairs, and it has been most deliberate. Labor’s signature election promises were prioritised for the first sitting fortnight, their passage aided by a ministry with broad experience from the last stint in government, and changes to the standing orders which made the operation of the Parliament more efficient, while not stifling debate.Independent Sophie Scamps in discussion with Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen in the House of Representatives on Thursday before the bill was passed.
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