The Parliamentary Leadership Taskforce reconvened on 15 August 2022 and recommitted to the implementation of all recommendations from the Set the Standard report.
The membership of the Taskforce now includes:
- Ms Sharon Claydon MP
- Senator Perin Davey
- Senator the Hon Don Farrell
- Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher
- Senator the Hon Jane Hume
- Hon Sussan Ley MP
- Ms Zali Steggall OAM, MP
- Senator Larissa Waters
The meeting discussed the significant progress to date of the implementation of the recommendations from the Set the Standard report, acknowledging some necessary delays due to the election period. The members agreed to release a refreshed Implementation Tracker providing detail of progress against each recommendation, along with information on future implementation activities.
The Taskforce discussed the importance of strong leadership to help ensure safe and respectful workplaces, canvassing options for an annual discussion in Parliament to discuss progress and agreed that this should coincide with the tabling of the first annual Taskforce report.
Members also supported the establishment of appropriate systems to support performance. Members acknowledged the significant changes to induction processes for new parliamentarians and their staff, along with the ongoing provision of safe and respectful workplace training that is available to all parliamentarians and their staff. A report on the roll-out of the induction program is expected to be considered at the October meeting of the Taskforce.
The value of diverse workplaces and representation was discussed, noting the increased diversity in the 47th Parliament. Taskforce members noted the re-establishment of the Joint Select Committee on Parliamentary Standards which is preparing to draft codes of conduct for Parliamentarians and their staff. The Taskforce noted that the Committee has made a public call for submissions.
The Taskforce reiterated the need to ensure people in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces are physically and psychologically well and feel safe. The Taskforce acknowledged the expansion of the Parliamentary Workplace Support Service on 12 April 2022 and noted other measures, such as changes to the sitting calendar and amendments to sitting times agreed in the House of Representatives.
Members reaffirmed the importance of engaging with stakeholders throughout implementation and discussed options for doing so in relation to key priorities for the next six months.
The next meeting will be held in September 2022.