Zali Steggall is calling for Labor to nominate a female speaker in the lower house and for more prominence for the crossbench | LisaVisentin
Independent Warringah MP Zali Steggall has urged the Albanese government to nominate a woman for speaker in the House of Representatives to reflect the voice of female voters in the election and also called for changes to parliamentary processes to give more prominence to the new expanded crossbench.
Earlier on Monday, Steggall said she would consider the role if approached by the government, but threw her support behind third-term Centre Alliance-turned-independent member for Mayo Rebekha Sharkie. “Women want a seat at the table, and there is talk of Labor putting a lot more women on their front bench, which is good,” Steggall said. “But in circumstances where you have a prime minister and treasurer, who are male and you have a leader of the opposition who is male, I think a female speaker would be more than appropriate.
The speaker is responsible for the proper function and order of the chamber by ensuring MPs abide by the rules, called standing orders, and that correct parliamentary procedure is followed. They are expected to perform the role impartially. The role is elected by a vote of all MPs.Sharkie said it would be an “honour” to be offered the speakership, but emphasised she had not had any discussions with Labor about the role.
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