In 1901 the Australian Constitution established the Australian Parliament, also known as the federal Parliament or the Commonwealth Parliament. The Parliament consists of the King (represented by the Governor-General) and two Houses (the Senate and the House of Representatives).

The Australian Parliament has four main roles:

Making and changing federal laws.

Representing the people of Australia.

Providing a place where government is formed.

Keeping a check on the work of the government.

Learn more

Senate

The Senate is one of the two houses of Parliament. It consists of 76 senators, twelve from each of the six states and two from each of the mainland territories. It shares the power to make laws with the other House of the Parliament, the House of Representatives.

House of Representatives

The House of Representatives is one of the two Houses of Parliament and is sometimes called ‘the People’s House’ or the ‘house of government’. The party, or parties, that hold a majority of seats in the House form government. Each Member of the House of Representatives represents an electorate.

Publications and policies

There are a number of publications that explain the work of the Parliament, and the various practices and procedures of the chambers, as well as policies about the workings of Parliament House.

Education

Explore resources about different aspects of the work of the Parliament and its committees.

Parliamentary departments

The work of the Australian Parliament is supported by four Parliamentary departments:

Employment

Find out about current job vacancies in the four departments within the Australian Parliamentary Service.

International program

Includes parliamentary visits, development programs and participation in international parliamentary associations

The Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS)

The PWSS provides independent, confidential and trauma aware human resource advice to create and maintain safe, respectful, and inclusive workplaces

Media rules and filming applications

Rules for media related activity in Parliament House and its precincts

Parliamentary Friendship Groups (non-country)

Details of groups formally recognised by the Presiding Officers. Their recognition lasts for the term of Parliament

Australian Parliament House Security Pass Office

Details on how to apply for an access card

Sitting calendar

The Parliamentary sitting calendar