AAP

Australian Associated Press

Hon.

Honourable

AG

Australian Greens

Ind.

Independent

ALP

Australian Labor Party

Lib.

Liberal Party of Australia

APPF

Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum

NP

The Nationals

DPS

Department of Parliamentary Services

OECD

Organisation for Economic Co-operation

5 January

The World Health Organisation notifies member states that an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown cause has been identified in Wuhan City, China.[2]

13–16 January

Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum

The Australian Parliament hosts the 28th Annual meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF), attended by some 350 delegates from national parliaments across the region. The Australian Parliament is represented by a delegation of 27 senators and members.[3]

The APPF meets annually, providing ‘a platform to promote a stronger regional identity and cooperation focusing on peace, freedom, democracy and prosperity’.[4]

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tony Smith (Lib., Casey, Vic) is elected as President of the APPF. On 13 February, Speaker Smith makes a statement to the House of Representatives about the Forum, presenting the conference Joint Communique, Chairman’s Statement and Resolutions.[5] The members for Menzies (Kevin Andrews (Lib., Vic.)) and Lalor (Joanne Ryan (ALP, Vic.)) also make statements.[6]

2020 APPF Opening Ceremony

Image source: APPF

19–21 January

Novel coronavirus

The Australian Government Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Brendan Murphy, announces that the Health Department ‘is aware of the cases of novel coronavirus … from the region of Wuhan in China, and watching developments very closely’.[7]

On 20 January, the Health Department activates its National Incident Room to coordinate the health sector emergency response to COVID-19.[8]

On 21 January COVID-19 is declared a ‘disease of pandemic potential’ enabling the issue of ‘enhanced biosecurity measures’.[9]

Dr Brendan Murphy

Image source: Department of Health

20 January

Resignation: Senator Bernardi

Independent SA Senator Cory Bernardi formally resigns from Parliament,[10] having announced his impending departure in November 2019.[11] Senator Bernardi will be replaced by a Liberal as he was elected as a representative of that party in 2016.[12]

Cory Bernardi

Image source: Auspic

20 January

Canberra hailstorm

Auspic photographer David Foote captures what would become an iconic image of Parliament House following the brief but violent hailstorm that struck Canberra on this day.[13] 

Image source: Auspic

25 January

First confirmed case of COVID-19 in Australia

Health Minister Greg Hunt (Lib., Flinders, Vic) and Australian Government CMO Brendan Murphy announce that Victorian authorities have identified Australia’s first confirmed case of COVID-19.[14] (The Department of Health had issued its first public guidance on COVID-19 the previous day.)[15]

Greg Hunt

Image source: Auspic

30 January

The World Health Organization declares the novel coronavirus outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.[16]

1 February

Increasing restrictions on international travel begin

The Government restricts access to foreign nationals who are in mainland China and requires Australian citizens and permanent residents who have been in mainland China to self-isolate for 14 days.[17]

Similar restrictions are subsequently introduced for Iran (1 March),[18] South Korea (5 March),[19] and Italy (11 March).[20]

The Health Minister, Prime Minister and CMO at a Press Conference on 5 March 2020

Image source: Scott Morrison (Prime Minister), Twitter

2 February

Ministerial resignation

Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie (NP, Vic.) resigns from cabinet and from her position as Deputy Leader of the Nationals for breaching the Ministerial Standards.[21]

The resignation comes amid ongoing controversy about the governance and award of funding under the Community Sport Infrastructure Program.[22]

Following the release of a highly critical ANAO report, on 17 January 2020 Prime Minister Scott Morrison (Lib., Cook, NSW) asks the head of his department (Philip Gaetjens) to investigate whether there had been a breach of ministerial standards.[23] The Report is not released.[24] However, Gaetjens finds that Senator McKenzie ‘acted within the remit of the Guidelines’ but:

breached the Standards by failing to declare her memberships of two organisations and … had an actual conflict of interest when awarding funding to one of those organisations … which was neither

declared to the Prime Minister nor managed.[25]

On 5 February 2020, the Senate resolves to establish a Select Committee on Administration of Sports Grants to inquire into and report on the administration and award of funding under the Community Sport Infrastructure Grant Program’.[26] The Committee tables an Interim Report in December 2020[27] and a Final Report in March 2021.[28]

Bridget McKenzie

Image source: Auspic

3 February

Change of leadership: Australian Greens

Senator Richard di Natale (Vic.) announces his resignation as Parliamentary Leader of the Australian Greens, and his intention to resign from the Senate in the coming months.[29]

Senator di Natale became leader of the Australian Greens in May 2015, following the retirement of Christine Milne.

He is succeeded as Leader (on 4 February 2020) by Adam Bandt, Member for Melbourne.

Adam Bandt

Image source: Auspic

3 February

Ministerial resignation

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan (LNP, Qld) offers his resignation[30] to party Leader Michael McCormack (NP, Riverina, NSW) to enable him to support former Leader Barnaby Joyce (NP, New England, NSW) in the Nationals upcoming party room leadership ballot.[31]

Matt Canavan

Image source: Auspic

4 February

Nationals leadership

Michael McCormack is re-elected as Leader of the Nationals in a party room leadership ballot triggered by the resignation of Senator Bridget McKenzie.[32] David Littleproud (LNP, Maranoa, Qld) is elected Deputy Leader.

Michael McCormack

Image source: Auspic

4 February

‘Black Summer’: Australian bushfires

On the first sitting day of the year, condolence motions are moved in the House of Representatives and the Senate on the devastation caused by the season’s bushfires.[33] The motions acknowledge the ‘loss of 33 lives, the destruction of over 3,000 homes, the unimaginable loss of … wildlife, and the devastating impact on regional economies’.

Present during the debate are family members of Australian firefighters who died fighting the fires[34] and also the US Ambassador representing the families of three American firefighters who also lost their lives.[35]

After the speeches, both Houses adjourn as a mark of respect to the victims of the bushfires. Debate on the motion continues in the Federation Chamber in the following week.

Image source: Auspic

Watch the debate on the condolence motion in the Senate and in the House of Representatives.

4 February

Procedural changes in the Senate

The first sessions of the new sitting year see the trial of new procedures proposed by the Senate’s Procedure Committee and agreed by the Senate in 2019.[36] This includes a reduction in speaking times to enable more senators to participate in debate.[37]

The Senate in session

 Image source: Auspic

6 February

Changes to the Ministry

Prime Minister Morrison announces changes to his ministry following the resignation of two Nationals ministers: Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie and Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan.[38]

Keith Pitt (LNP, Hinkler, Qld) is appointed to the position of Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia; and David Littleproud is given responsibility for Agriculture, a portfolio he had held from 20 December 2017 to 29 May 2019, becoming Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management. Minister Darren Chester’s (NP, Gippsland, Vic) portfolio of Veterans Affairs is elevated to Cabinet rank. Andrew Gee (NP, Calare, NSW) and Kevin Hogan (NP, Page, NSW) also enter the ministry.

The new ministers are sworn in on the same day.

Scott Morrison

Image source: Auspic

6 February

New Senator for South Australia

The South Australian Parliament chooses Andrew McLachlan (Lib.) to fill the casual vacancy arising from the resignation of Cory Bernardi. Senator McLachlan had resigned from the SA Legislative Council to take up his seat in the Senate.[39]

A casual vacancy arises when a member of the Senate dies, resigns their seat, or is absent without leave or disqualified during their term.[40] Section 15 of the Australian Constitution provides that when such a vacancy occurs a new senator is appointed by the relevant state or territory legislature.

Senator McLachlan takes his seat in the Senate on 10 February 2020[41] and makes his first speech on 26 February.[42] He is the ‘second former President of the Legislative Council to sit in the Senate’, the first being Sir Richard Baker.

Andrew McLachlan

Image source: Auspic

Watch Senator McLachlan oath of allegiance

Watch Senator McLachlan’s first speech

10 February

Address by the President of the Republic of Indonesia

His Excellency Mr Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia addresses members and senators assembled in the House of Representatives.[43] The President is in Canberra on a state visit marking the 70th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between Australia and Indonesia.

During the visit, Prime Minister Morrison and President Widodo ‘met for the Indonesia-Australia Annual Leaders’ Meeting and held a Joint Ministerial Meeting with other Australian and Indonesian Ministers’.[44] 

Watch the address by President Widodo

10 February

A new Deputy Speaker

Llew O’Brien, member for Wide Bay (LNP, Qld) is elected as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. (The position is vacant due to the elevation of Kevin Hogan to the outer Ministry on 6 February 2020.)[45] Mr Hogan wins the position by ballot, receiving 75 votes and the other nominee, Damian Drum (NP, Nicholls, Vic.) receiving 67.[46]

Llew O’Brien

Image source: Auspic

Watch the election of the Deputy Speaker

11 February

Sydney Symphony Orchestra ‘pop-up’ performances

A string quartet from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra performs in a number of locations in Parliament House, an initiative of the Parliamentary Friends of Orchestral Music. On the following day, the Manager of Opposition Business Tony Burke (ALP, Watson, NSW) rises in the House to commend the performances and ask if is possible for it to ‘happen more often’.[47]

12 February

Ministerial Statement: Closing the Gap

Prime Minister Morrison delivers his annual ministerial statement on Closing the Gap.

Established in 2008, the Closing the Gap framework was intended to address inequality in child mortality, health, life expectancy, education and employment between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-Indigenous Australians by the year 2030.[48]

The Prime Minister informs the House that two of the seven targets are on track to be met:

Nothing should diminish how significant these gains are. However, the four expiring targets that were supposed to be met by 2018 were not met: halving the gap in child mortality; closing the gap in school attendance; halving the gap in child literacy and numeracy; halving the gap in employment. The final target, closing the gap in life expectancy within a generation, is not on track to be met by 2031. This is a stark and sobering report that I have tabled.[49]

Debate continues in the Federation Chamber.

This will be the last report under the 2008 Framework. A Partnership on Closing the Gap, established in March 2019 between the Commonwealth Government, state and territory governments, the Coalition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peak Organisations and the Australian Local Government Association, developed a new Partnership Agreement which came into effect in July 2020. The Agreement sets 16 new targets and outcomes.

20 February

A new Royal Commission

The Royal Commission into Natural Disaster Arrangements, also referred to as the Bushfires Royal Commission, is established. Retired Air Chief Marshall Mark Binskin AC, the Hon Dr Annabelle Bennett AC SC, and Professor Andrew McIntosh are appointed Commissioners.

The Report of the Royal Commission is received by the Government on 28 October 2020 and tabled in the Parliament on 9 November 2020.[50]

24 February

Statements on domestic and family violence

Prime Minister Morrison and Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese (ALP, Grayndler, NSW) make statements, on indulgence, on the murders of Hannah Clarke and her children[51] and ‘of so many others—mothers and children’.[52]

At the end of the statements, as a mark of respect, all Members present stand in silence.

On 26 February, a vigil is held at Parliament House in memory of Hannah Clarke and her children.[53]

Watch the statements on indulgence

26 February

Disaster Risk Reduction Framework

The Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud makes a statement to the House on disaster risk reduction, acknowledging ‘the outstanding efforts of Australia's dedicated emergency services personnel and volunteers’ and expressing thanks for volunteers and equipment provided by other countries.[54] The statement is referred to the Federation Chamber where debate continues on 3 and 4 March.

David Littleproud

Image source: Auspic

Watch the ministerial statement

26 February

Senate inquiry into domestic violence

The Senate refers to the Legal and Constitutional Affairs References Committee an inquiry ‘on domestic violence with particular regard to violence against women and their children’, with a reporting date of 13 August 2020.[55] The Committee determines that ‘conducting another lengthy, broad-ranging public inquiry into domestic and family violence in Australia at this time would be of limited value’.[56] Its report, tabled in May 2020, reviews earlier reports, relevant government responses and actions taken in relation to those recommendations.

The Committee’s decision to conclude its inquiry early, without calling for submissions or hearing from expert witnesses, is sharply criticised.[57]

On 30 May 2020, the Minister for Families and Social Services, Senator Anne Ruston (Lib., SA), and the Minister for Women, Senator Marise Payne (Lib., NSW), announce that they have asked the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs to conduct an inquiry into family, domestic and sexual violence.[58] The Committee adopts the inquiry on 4 June 2020[59] and concludes its public hearings in December 2020.[60]

27 February

Visit of the President of Israel

His Excellency Mr Reuven (Ruvi) Rivlin, President of the State of Israel, visits Parliament House during his official visit to Australia (21–27 February). It is his second visit to Australia, but his first as President.[61]

Prime Minister Morrison and Israeli President Reuvin Rivlin and Parliament House

Image source: Scott Morrison (Prime Minister), Twitter

27 February

The Prime Minister activates the Australian Health Sector Emergency Response plan for Novel Coronavirus.[62]

27 February

Disorder in the Federation Chamber

The Deputy Speaker suspends and subsequently adjourns the Federation Chamber due to repeated closure motions moved during Constituency Statements.[63]

On 2 March (the next sitting day), Speaker Tony Smith reports this to the House, affirming that the ‘repeated motions were an abuse of forms of the House and were disorderly …. this reflects poorly on the House.’[64] Manager of Opposition Business Tony Burke responds, noting that the closure motions were made in response to closure motions moved against opposition members in the House.[65]

The Federation Chamber

Image source: Auspic

1 March

Australia records its first death from COVID-19.[66]

The first case of COVID-19 community transmission in Australia is announced the following day.[67]

By 30 April 2020 there are 6,753 recorded cases of COVID-19 in Australia, including 91 deaths. Some 64 per cent of cases are acquired overseas.[68] 

3 March

Australian Associated Press

The Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition both make statements on indulgence on the impending June closure of the Australian Associated Press (AAP).[69] Members hold up handwritten ‘thank you’ signs and applaud the journalists present in the gallery.

This follows the announcement that AAP Newswire would close after 85 years of supplying newswire content.[70] AAP newswire is subsequently sold and relaunched as a not-for-profit company.[71] In September it receives a $5 million grant under the Public Interest News Gathering program.[72]

Watch the statements on indulgence in the House of Representatives

5 March

The Government commissions the National Coordination Mechanism to coordinate the whole-of-government response to issues outside the direct health management of COVID-19.[73]

5 March

House Standing Committee on Environment and Energy

The Chair of the Standing Committee on the Environment and Energy presents to the House[74] its report on its inquiry into vegetation and land management policy relating to bushfires.[75] The inquiry had commenced on 5 December 2019 following a referral by then Minister for Water Resources, Drought, Rural Finance, Natural Disaster and Emergency Management, David Littleproud. The Committee had announced in February that it would not proceed further with its inquiry given the Government’s announcement of a Royal Commission into the summer bushfires.[76]

8 March

President of the Senate announces he will not contest the next election

President of the Senate Scott Ryan (Lib., Vic) announces that he will retire at the next Federal election.[77]

First elected to the Senate in 2007, President Ryan was appointed to the ministry in 2014. Immediately prior to his election in 2017 as President of the Senate, he held the offices of Special Minister of State and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Cabinet.

Scott Ryan

Image source: Auspic

11 March

The Government announces a $2.4 billion health package to address COVID-19.^[78]

Health Minister Hunt, Prime Minister Morrison and CMO Brendan Murphy at a Press Conference at Parliament House, 11 March 2020

Image source: Scott Morrison (Prime Minister), Twitter

11 March

The World Health Organisation declares COVID-19 a pandemic.[79]

12 March

The Government announces a $17.6 billion economic support package to ‘keep Australians in jobs, keep businesses in business and support households and the Australian economy as the world deals with the significant challenges posed by the spread of the coronavirus’.[80]

12 March

Parliamentary delegations postponed

The Speaker of the House of Representatives and President of the Senate announce that ‘due to the evolving situation for international travel, several outgoing parliamentary delegations scheduled for March and April have been postponed’.[81]

Parliament House

Image source: Auspic

13–23 March

Media reports parliamentarians testing positive for coronavirus

On 13 March, Minister for Home Affairs Peter Dutton (LNP, Dickson, Qld) confirms he has coronavirus.[82] Senator Susan McDonald (LNP, Qld) announces on 16 March that she too has tested positive to coronavirus, as does[83] Senator Andrew Bragg (Lib., NSW) on the following day[84] and Senator Rex Patrick (Ind., SA) several days later.[85]

13 March

The Prime Minister, Premiers and Chief Ministers resolve to form a ‘national cabinet to deal with the national response to the coronavirus’.[86] The first meeting of the National Cabinet takes place on 15 March.[87]

National Cabinet, meeting remotely.

Image source: Alex Ellinghausen/Sydney Morning Herald/Pool

15 March onwards

Tasmania, Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland announce border restrictions.[88]

A range of restrictions are put in place progressively to curtail people’s movements and limit their mixing with people from outside their households.[89] People arriving in Australia from overseas must self-isolate for 14 days. Non-essential services and many schools close.

16 March

Changes to the operations of Parliament House

The Presiding Officers announce changes to the operation of Parliament House to reduce ‘the risk of transmission while enabling the essential work of Parliament to proceed’. This includes closure of public galleries and cancellation of events and school tours during the upcoming sitting on 23 March. Committee proceedings will also not be open to the public.[90]

18 March

In response to the coronavirus outbreak in Australia, the Governor-General declares that ‘a human biosecurity emergency exists’.[91] ‘The declaration gives the Minister for Health expansive powers to issue directions and set requirements in order to combat the outbreak. This is the first time these powers under the Biosecurity Act have been used.’[92]

In the following weeks, five determinations are made by the Health Minister:[93] banning international cruise ships from entering Australian ports;[94] prohibiting overseas travel by Australian citizens and permanent residents;[95] restricting access to remote communities;[96] requiring the closure of most retail outlets in Australian international airport terminals;[97] prohibiting price gouging of personal protection equipment, hand sanitiser and alcohol wipes;[98] and regulating COVIDSafe app data prior to the passage of the Privacy Amendment (Public Health Contact Information) Act 2020.[99]

His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd)

Image source: Governor-General's biography

20 March

The Federal Budget is postposed

Prime Minister Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg (Lib., Kooyong, Vic) announce that the Federal Budget will be postponed until October. The Prime Minister says:

It was also agreed today [at a meeting of National Cabinet] that putting Budgets together at this time with the great uncertainty that exists is not something that any Commonwealth or State Government should be doing. As a result, we've already decided that we will not be now handing down a Budget until the first Tuesday in October, on the 6th of October. …. All other states and territories will be working to similar timetables. … And as a result, we will be putting in place the necessary measures with the support of the Parliament on supply and other continuances to ensure the proper functioning of government services and the continuation of vital programs.[100]

Josh Frydenberg

image source: Auspic

20 March

Australia closes its borders to ‘all non-citizens and non-residents’ with effect from 9pm AEDT Friday 20 March.[101]

22 March

The Government announces a second package of measures as part of its economic response to the coronavirus, amounting to some $66 billion.[102]

23 March

Parliament meets to debate the Government’s COVID-19 response package

As per the Presiding Officers’ statement of 16 March, special arrangements are put in place in both chambers for the single day sitting on 23 March. Seating arrangements are adjusted to meet COVID-19 requirements for social distancing. Pairing arrangements are put in place so that only 37 senators and 90 members are present in Parliament House, with numbers in the Chambers kept to a minimum. Other minor changes are made to procedures.[103]

The business program in both the House and Senate are ‘swept aside so that each House could focus on the Commonwealth Government’s economic response to the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic’.[104] However, before debate on the legislation begins, Prime Minister Morrison delivers a ministerial statement on COVID-19.[105]

The Government’s coronavirus economic measures are put before the house in a package of bills which pass the House shortly after 5pm, were reported in the Senate around 6.40pm, and passed some 3 and a half hours later’.[106] The package of bills includes temporary measures to avoid unnecessary insolvencies and bankruptcies due to coronavirus’.[107]

The Parliament also passes three supply bills to provide resources for government services until the October Budget.

The bills receive Royal Assent the following day.[108]

At the end of the day’s business, the House of Representatives resolves to adjourn ‘until a date and hour to be fixed by the Speaker’.[109] It also agrees a new sitting calendar, with the next sittings scheduled for 11 August 2020.[110] In arguing for an extended adjournment, the Leader of the House Christian Porter (Lib., Pearce, WA) states:

some risk attaches to the operation of parliament, particularly during what is anticipated to be the peak point in the transmission of the coronavirus. Obviously, we come from all points in Australia. …. [S]ome risk attaches to flying in multiple members from every corner in Australia, and some attention to that fact has been had in redesigning the sitting calendar that is now before the House.[111]

The Senate also resolves to adjourn until 11 August 2020. However, it ensured flexibility in further changes to its schedule and program by resolving that ‘the President shall alter the day and time of the next meeting of the Senate’ at the request or agreement of the Government and the Opposition.[112]

The long adjournment attracts criticism and sparks discussion of the potential for Parliament to meet virtually.[113]

Social distancing in the House of Representatives, 23 March 2020

Image source: Auspic

Watch the statements by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House.

Watch the Prime Minister’s statement on COVID-19, and the Leader of the Opposition’s response.

24 March

The Government prohibits overseas travel by Australian citizens and permanent residents.^[114]

25 March

Parliament House closes to the public

Parliament House closes to the public indefinitely from 5 pm to meet the enhanced and additional social distancing measures announced by the Prime Minister the previous day.[115]

Parliament House foyer

Image source: Auspic

25 March

The Prime Minister announces a new National COVID-19 Coordination Commission[116]—later renamed the National COVID-19 Commission Advisory Board—to provide a ‘business perspective to Government on Australia’s economic recovery.’[117]

27 March

National Cabinet agrees that all travellers arriving in Australia will be required to undertake 14 days mandatory isolation at designated facilities, not in their homes.[118]

Schools transition to home-based learning.

29 March

National Cabinet agrees to a six month moratorium on COVID-19 related commercial and rental evictions.[119] The Government announces a package to boost mental health, telehealth, Medicare, family violence prevention, and emergency food relief services.[120]

30 March

The Government announces its third round of financial assistance—the JobKeeper wage subsidy payments to be paid through the Australian Taxation Office.[121]

31 March

The Government announces a major partnership with private hospitals[122] to ‘ensure the full resources of [the] health system, are ready and focussed on treating patients as required, through the coronavirus pandemic’.[123]

2 April

The Government announces new funding arrangements for the early childhood sector in response to the impact of COVID-19 on enrolments and attendance.[124]

8 April

Parliament re-convenes for a single-day sitting

Parliamentarians return to Canberra for a special sitting to debate the second tranche of legislation dealing with the Government’s COVID-19 economic measures.

As they did for the 23 March sittings, and in consultation with relevant health authorities, both Chambers implement extended pairing and social distancing arrangements and variations to procedure.[125] Fifty-nine members of the House of Representatives and 25 senators are in attendance.

The Prime Minister makes a ministerial statement on COVID-19, outlining Government actions to reduce the health and economic aspects of the pandemic, and thanking groups and individuals for their contributions.[126] The Leader of the Opposition responds.[127] Both subsequently make statements on indulgence on Easter, urging Australians to not ‘go away; stay home, only go out for what you need’.[128]

Four government bills are passed, without amendment, relating to the Job Keeper program which the Government announced on 30 March.

The House of Representatives resolves to adjourn ‘until a date and hour to be fixed by the Speaker’.^[129] The Senate resolves to adjourn until 11 August 2020, but again enables the President ‘alter the day and time of the next meeting of the Senate’ at the request or agreement of the Government and the Opposition’. A motion by the crossbench to reinstate sittings in May and June is not successful.[130]

Image source: Auspic

8 April

The Senate establishes a COVID-19 Select Committee

The Senate resolves to establish a Select Committee ‘to inquire into the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic’.[131] Committee Chair Katy Gallagher (ALP, ACT) says:

This committee, in its early stages particularly, will provide the country with the scrutiny that's needed on the government’s response, in the absence of the parliament …. this select committee will be an important vehicle for examining the government's response and providing the transparency, accountability and scrutiny that the people of Australia deserve. Indeed, this is the role that this Senate importantly plays across the political system.[132]

The Committee tables its First Interim Report in December 2020[133] and its Second Interim Report in February 2021.[134]

Katy Gallagher, Chair of the COVID-19 Select Committee

Image source: Auspic

26 April

The Government releases the COVIDSafe app intended to facilitate contact tracing.[135] 

28 April

Services Australia satellite processing centre at Parliament House

Like their public service counterparts,[136] parliamentary service staff volunteer for secondment to Services Australia (SA) to assist the many Australians needing Government support. A satellite Job Seeker processing centre is established in Parliament House committee rooms, helping to enable SA to ‘rapidly expand its capability while maintaining physical distancing requirements’ for the workforce.[137]

In all, 63 parliamentary service officers (62 from the Department of Parliamentary Services and one from the Department of the Senate) are deployed to SA.[138]

The satellite centre operates at Parliament House until August 2020.

30 April

Resignation of the Hon Dr Mike Kelly AM

Member for Eden Monaro, Dr Mike Kelly (ALP, NSW), announces his retirement due to longstanding health issues associated with past military service.[139] He entered the House of Representatives as member for Eden Monaro in 2007. Defeated at the 2013 general election by Dr Peter Hendy, he was re-elected as the member for Eden Monaro in 2016 and 2019. Dr Kelly served as Minister for Defence Materiel in 2013, and as Parliamentary Secretary in various portfolios between 2007 and 2013.

As the House is not sitting at the time of his resignation, Dr Kelly’s valedictory remarks are tabled by the Speaker, Tony Smith, and incorporated in Hansard.[140]

On 25 May, the Speaker announces 4 July 2020 as the date of the by-election,[141] issuing the writ on 28 May.[142]

Mike Kelly

Image source: Auspic

8 May

The Prime Minister announces that National Cabinet has agreed a three step framework for easing COVID-19 related restrictions due to a steady decline in case numbers.[143] Lockdown restrictions progressively ease.

8 May

Anniversary of the first broadcast of the Commonwealth Parliament

8 May 2020 is the 75th anniversary of the first radio broadcast[144] of the proceedings of the Australian Parliament, featuring the Prime Minister Ben Chifley announcing the end of the war in Europe.[145] Regular broadcasts commenced the following year.[146] 

Senate proceedings are televised for the first time in August 1990[147] and the House of Representatives in March 1991.[148]

Image source: ‘44 A Side’, by Roadside Guitars

11 May

Presiding Officers’ statement, ‘Temporary and precautionary changes to Parliament House operations’

The Presiding Officers issue a statement setting out arrangements for the May sittings of Parliament. Parliament House remains closed to the public and to events. External departments and agencies are asked to minimise attendance of public servants ‘unless on essential business’, and building occupants are asked to ‘avoid non-essential attendance’ of visitors and staff.[149]

12–14 May

Parliament resumes

Parliament meets for a further special sitting on 12–14 May, addressing a broad range of matters which had been deferred due to the pandemic.

Once again, extended pairing and procedural arrangements are in place to ensure COVID-19 social distancing requirements are met. 130 of 151 members and 70 of 76 senators attend during the week, with ‘additional seating … provided around the perimeter of the chamber to accommodate the larger numbers’.[150]

Among the bills debated is one dealing with privacy measures for the Government’s COVID-19 app—the Privacy Amendment (Public Health Contact Information) Bill 2020.

On the last sitting day, the houses resolve to return for a seven-day sitting in June, and to change the calendar to include two weeks of Budget estimates hearings in October.

Image source: National Archives of Australia

12 May

The state of the economy

With the Budget deferred until October, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg makes a ministerial statement on the economy, noting the global and domestic impact of the pandemic and the various economic measures put in place by the Government.^[151]

Speaking in response, the Shadow Treasurer Jim Chalmers (ALP, Rankin, Qld) expresses concern with the Government’s response and emphasises the need for an economic plan ‘for when the economy doesn’t snap back’.^[152]

Jim Chalmers

Image source: Auspic

12–13 May

Condolences for Victorian police officers

Motions in the House of Representatives and the Senate pay tribute to Victorian police officers Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King, Constable Glen Humphris and Constable Joshua Prestney.[153] The four officers were killed by a truck after pulling over a car on a freeway on 22 April 2020, in the largest loss of police life in one incident in the state’s history.[154]

13 May

Ministerial Statement: COVID-19

The Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, makes a statement in the House on Australia’s COVID-19 health response, noting that as of that morning, Australia has 6,970 confirmed cases and 98 deaths, thanking health workers and the community, and outlining measures in place to contain the spread, develop vaccines and progressively remove restrictions.[155] He states:

We've reduced our rate of increase in new cases from 25 to 30 per cent per day at the peak of the growth in cases at the end of March to much less than 0.5 per cent a day now. The rate of increase in new cases has been below 0.5 per cent for 23 consecutive days.[156]

Greg Hunt

Image source: Auspic

5 June

Presiding Officers’ statement: Changes to the Operations of Parliament House

The Presiding Officers announce changes to the operation of Parliament House, lifting access restrictions for some categories of passholders, though access is conditional on it being ‘strictly necessary … for specific meetings with parliamentarians that have been arranged prior to coming to the building’. Parliament House remains closed to the public, and event spaces remain closed to bookings.^[157]

10–18 June

Parliamentary sittings

The Parliament meets in its first full sitting fortnight since March.

Parliament House is closed to the public for the sitting period, and the viewing galleries remain closed. COVID-19 related procedural and physical adjustments continue in both Houses; however, the great majority of senators and members attend across the fortnight’s sittings—though limitations apply to the number who can be present in the chambers at one time.

Social distancing arrangements in the House of Representatives

Image source: Auspic

10 June

Senator crosses the floor

Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells (Lib., NSW) crosses the floor to vote for a motion by Senator Rex Patrick to establish an inquiry into the future development of Australia’s relationship with the People’s Republic of China. The motion is defeated.[158]

Concetta Fierravanti-Wells Image source: Auspic

11 June

Inquiry into the destruction of ancient rock shelters at Juukan Gorge (WA)

The Senate refers to the Joint Standing Committee on Northern Australia an inquiry into the destruction in May 2020 of ‘46,000 year old caves at the Juukan Gorge in the Pilbara region of Western Australia’ by mining company Rio Tinto.[159] The area is one of great cultural significance to the Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura (PKKP) people of Western Australia, and of great ethnographic and archaeological importance. The terms of reference task the committee with investigating the ‘immediate causes and consequences, and its wider ramifications for the protection of Indigenous heritage’.[160] The Committee tables an Interim Report in December 2020.

11 June 2020

50 Years of Senate Committees

The Senate marks the 50th anniversary of the Senate committee system ‘that forever changed the role and work of senators and the Senate and the parliament itself’.[161] Speaking in the chamber, President Scott Ryan says:

Through its committee work the Senate became a force for inquiry and scrutiny in a way that was scarcely imagined in 1970—dare I say even in 1901—and in ways that reinforce the uniqueness of this chamber across the Westminster world.

He informs the Chamber that ‘Senate committees had produced around 120 reports in the 69 years prior to the change and more than 5,500 reports in the 50 years since’.[162]

Statement by the President on 50^th anniversary of the Senate committee system

16 June

Death of former senator John Madigan

On 25 July, the President of the Senate informs the Senate of the death on 16 June of former Senator John Madigan.[163] Madigan, who served in the Senate from 2011 to 2016, was the first parliamentarian in almost forty years to represent the Democratic Labor Party.[164] A condolence motion is delayed until 8 December to enable Mr Madigan’s family to attend once travel restrictions are lifted.[165]

John Madigan

Image source: Auspic

20 June onwards

Victoria begins to reinstate restrictions as new COVID outbreaks are recorded in a ‘second wave’ of infection.

As at 3:00pm, a total of 7,436 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Australia since the pandemic began, including 102 deaths.[166] By 31 July, this has risen to 16,905 reported cases,[167] of which over 10,500 are in Victoria.[168]

25 June

The Government announces a support package for the arts and entertainment sector which generally was not eligible for JobKeeper.[169]

2 July

Parliament House to re-open to the pubic

The Speaker and the President of the Senate announce:

following advice from relevant health officials and the recent easing of restrictions announced by the ACT Government to allow public gatherings up to a maximum of 100 people, APH will reopen to the public on 4 July 2020. School visits will recommence on 20 July.[170]

3 July

Northern Territory loses a seat in the House of Representatives

As foreshadowed in a Parliamentary Library research paper,[171] the Australian Electoral Commissioner determines a reduced entitlement for the Northern Territory to a single seat based on the most recent official population figures.[172]

The last time that the Electoral Commissioner determined the Northern Territory was to lose a seat, the Parliament passed legislation that resulted in the determination being set aside.[173]

A private bill introduced by Northern Territory Senator Malarndirri McCarthy (ALP) on 11 June seeks to amend the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918to provide for a ‘minimum of two seats for the Northern Territory in the House of Representatives’.[174] The bill was referred to the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters (JSCEM) for inquiry on 12 June 2020. The deliberations of the JSCEM inquiry[175] inform the Government’s Electoral Amendment (Territory Representation) Bill, which passes the Parliament on 9 December.

Malarndirri McCarthy

Image source: Auspic

4 July

Eden-Monaro by-election

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, special measures are put in place by the AEC at polling places and through the entire by-election process.[176]

Unusually, the by-election is held during the NSW school holidays to enable the facilities to be sanitized after voting and counting at school polling booths before students return.[177]

There is a marked increase in pre-poll and postal votes compared to the rates in 2019 general election.[178]

The poll is declared on 20 July,[179] with former Bega-Shire Mayor Kristy McBain (ALP) defeating Liberal candidate Fiona Kotvojs by 735 votes. She is the first woman to represent Eden-Monaro.

Ms Bain is sworn into the House of Representatives on 24 August 2020, and delivers her first speech on 20 August 2020.[180]

Kristy McBain

Image source: Auspic

Watch Kristy McBain’s affirmation

Watch Kristy McBain’s first speech in Parliament.

5 July

Finance Minister announces retirement

Senator Mathias Cormann (Lib., WA) announces his intention to leave Parliament by the year’s end.[181]

Senator Cormann was appointed Minister for Finance in September 2013, and served in this position in the Abbott, Turnbull and Morrison cabinets.

He subsequently resigns from the Ministry on 30 October 2020, and from the Senate on 6 November 2020. Senator Simon Birmingham (Lib., SA) is sworn in as Minister for Finance on 30 October, also assuming the role of Leader of the Government in the Senate.[182]

After his retirement, and with the support of the Government,[183] Mr Cormann commences a campaign to become the next head of the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation (OECD)—he is one of 10 nominees for the position.[184]

Mathias Cormann

Image source: Auspic

6 July–2 August

On 6 July the Victorian and NSW governments, jointly close their shared border following a large increase in COVID-19 cases in Melbourne linked to Victoria’s hotel quarantine program.[185] (A judicial inquiry into the hotel quarantine program was established by the Victorian Government on 2 July.)[186]

On 7 July, Stage 3 ‘stay at home’ restrictions are reinstated across Melbourne and Mitchell shires in Victoria.[187]

With international arrivals to Victoria already suspended (2 July), on 10 July National Cabinet agrees to a national review of hotel quarantine arrangements and a cap on international arrivals.[188]

On 2 August, Victoria enters a State of Disaster and moves to Stage 4 restrictions.[189] The total number of cases recorded in Victoria is 11,557—of which 6322 are active—including 123 recorded deaths.[190]

18 July

Parliamentary sittings rescheduled

Following advice from the Chief Medical Officer, Prime Minister Morrison announces he is requesting that the sittings of Parliament scheduled for the first two weeks of August not proceed. He states:

The Government cannot ignore the risk to parliamentarians, their staff, the staff within the Parliament, and the broader community of the ACT that holding a parliamentary sitting would create.[191]

Speaker Tony Smith notifies Members that he has set Monday, 24 August as the time for the next meeting of the House.[192] Following consultation with the Leaders of the Government and Opposition in the Senate, and with other parties and Senators, President Scott Ryan notifies all senators that the scheduled sittings will not take place.[193] This is the ‘first time scheduled sittings have been set aside in this way’.[194] A working group is established by the Speaker and the President to establish protocols to enable the Parliament to meet safely.[195]

Image source: Auspic

6 August

Quarantine requirements for parliamentarians

The Commonwealth’s Acting Chief Medical Officer advises the Prime Minister that members and senators travelling to the ACT from Victoria pose ‘a significant risk’ to the Canberra community, and should be required to undertake strict quarantine for 14 days.[196]

The Presiding Officers issue a statement enclosing the health advice and recommending senators and members seek ‘further advice regarding attendance and travel from their Party Whips and from the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority and the Department of Finance’.[197]

7 August

Routine of Business—rules for remote participation in Senate proceedings

At the request of the Manager of Opposition Business in the Senate Katy Gallagher, the President of the Senate refers to the Senate Standing Committee on Procedure the development of rules to enable remote participation of senators where they are unable to attend sittings due to the pandemic.[198]

The Committee presents its Report on 21 August recommending rules for remote participation in Senate proceedings ‘while they are prevented from physically attending the Senate because of travel restrictions, quarantine requirements or personal health advice.’[199] The committee considers:

that the rules for remote participation of senators should be developed on the basis of an overarching principle that the proceedings of the Senate are to be managed in the Senate itself. This reflects a view about the primacy of attendance in the Parliament as the key means for senators to engage in and determine its work. The one exception to this principle recommended by the committee is that senators participating remotely should be able to move amendments and requests for amendments in committee of the whole, to ensure that all parties represented in the Senate can have their legislative proposals considered and determined.[200]

17 August

Presiding Officers’ statement regarding the upcoming sittings.

The Presiding Officers issue a joint statement setting out arrangements for the upcoming sittings. This follows ‘consultations between the Presiding Officers, Parliamentary Departments and relevant Commonwealth officers and agencies including the Acting Chief Medical Officer and ACT Health’. The building will be closed to the public and for events during the sittings. In addition to other access restrictions and social distancing/hygiene requirements, the wearing of masks is encouraged. Parliamentarians and travelling staff are ‘strongly advised to remain in the ACT for the weekend of August 29–30 rather than travel away and return’ due to the risk of community transmission. And, those travelling from Greater Sydney and Newcastle are asked to restrict their movements in the ACT.[201]

18 August

Banks’ Florilegium exhibition

To mark the 250th anniversary of HMB Endeavour’s voyage along Australia’s east coast, Parliament House hosts an exhibition celebrating Sir Joseph Banks’ Florilegium—a portfolio of 743 engravings, which illustrate the plant life seen on the voyage.

The Endeavour’s voyage was a combined Royal Navy and Royal Society expedition to the South Pacific from 1768 to 1771. Banks led a private scientific party which collected over 30,000 specimens, representing some 3,600 species, 1,300 of which were then unknown to science. Banks did not publish the Florilegium during his lifetime; and the first full colour edition was published between 1980 and 1990. The Parliament House Art Collection holds parts 1–15 of the Florilegium, consisting of 337 prints of flora gathered on the east coast of Australia in 1770.

Acacia terminalis (Leguminosae) Plate 95.

Line engraving by Frederick Polydore Nodder after Sydney Parkinson and Nodder himself.  Parliament Art Collections

21 August

Presiding Officers’ statement on the wearing of masks

Noting the increase in rates of community transmission of COVID-19, the Presiding Officers issue a statement recommending, ‘out of an abundance of caution’, the wearing of masks in the common areas of Parliament House during the upcoming sittings.[202]

24 August

Parliament via video link

The August sittings see a revolution in parliamentary procedure with senators and members who are unable to attend their respective chamber for COVID related reasons are able to participate in debate via video link.

The Senate adopts the rules for remote participation recommended by its Procedure Committee in its Report of 21 August.[203]

The House of Representatives also agrees to new procedures[204] by resolution,[205] following an agreement struck between the Leader of the House and the Manager of Opposition Business.[206] Speaking to the agreement, the Leader of Opposition Business Tony Burke says:

It’s important to note that what the Leader of the House and I have agreed on is not a virtual parliament. The parliament is meeting and it is meeting here. [W]hen members want to make a contribution to a debate or discussion in different ways, they’re able to do so via video link. But for all other purposes you have to be here.[207]

Remote participation in committee proceedings for members and witnesses has been occurring for years. However, this is the first time senators and members have been able to participate in parliamentary proceedings without being physically present.[208] Member for Corio Richard Marles (ALP, Victoria) and Queensland Senator Larissa Waters (AG) are the first parliamentarians to participate in debate via video link in their respective chambers.

A total of 62 senators and 109 members attend in person across the sitting period.[209]

Senators participating in proceedings via video link.

Image source: Auspic

24 August

Senate sittings and COVID-19

Senate President Scott Ryan makes a statement to the Chamber on the impact of COVID-19 on the Senate’s sittings. Referring to his 18 July statement,[210] he observes that this was ‘the first time scheduled sittings have been set aside in this way’.[211] The President speaks about the ‘risk of executive-imposed travel restrictions and quarantine requirements constraining the ability of senators to undertake their parliamentary duties’:[212]

The right of those elected to attend and participate in parliament is an ancient one. For good reason the ability of others, including the executive, to restrict this has always been limited. … The ability to scrutinise the executive and participate in legislative activity is unarguably even more critical in times of crisis due to the extraordinary powers being delegated, granted and exercised by officials and the executive.

In the current pandemic, an important principle is at stake: notably, the ability of the executive or its officers, no matter the jurisdiction, to control attendance at parliament or constrain the work of members of parliament when it's directly related to parliamentary proceedings. …

Unilateral action by executives—whether Commonwealth, state or territory—that impede the performance of Commonwealth parliamentary functions are problematic from a constitutional perspective. This remains the case even where, as is the case with border restrictions and quarantine requirements imposed at a state and territory level, that action is founded on or in aid of genuine public health advice and goals.[213]

24 August

Statements on Indulgence: COVID-19

Prime Minister Morrison makes a statement on indulgence on the impact of the pandemic, particularly in Victoria, and updates the House on his government’s response. He offers ‘sincere sympathies and condolences to the families’ of the 335 people in residential and in-home aged care who have died of COVID-19, and continues:[214] 

In Victoria, where there have been high levels of community transmission, 126 of the 766 residential aged-care facilities have outbreaks amongst residents and staff. Of those facilities that have experienced infections across Australia, the impact has been significant in 16 cases, and in four cases the impact has been severe and completely unacceptable. Again, I offer my apologies to the residents and families of those affected in those facilities. It was not good enough. [215]  

Speaking in response, Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese pays tribute to aged care workers, ‘dedicated nurses, carers and staff’, and criticises the Government for failing to develop a ‘COVID-19 plan specifically for the aged care sector’.[216]

Watch the statement on indulgence.

24 August

A newly independent Senator

Senator Rex Patrick (SA) informs the Senate he is no longer a member of the Centre Alliance party but will represent South Australia as an independent senator.[217]

Rex Patrick

Image source: Auspic

25 August

Resignation of Richard Di Natale, Senator for Victoria

Richard Di Natale resigns from the Senate, delivering his valedictory speech remotely due to COVID-19 border restrictions.[218]

Senator Di Natale was first elected to the Senate in 2010 and re-elected in 2016. He had served as Parliamentary Leader of the Australian Greens from May 2015 to February 2020.

Richard Di Natale

Image source: Auspic

Watch Senator Di Natale’s valedictory speech

3 September

The Senate affirms its rights

On joint motion of the Leaders of the Government and Opposition in the Senate, the Senate adopts a resolution affirming the ‘right of the Senate to determine its own meetings’, maintaining ‘the right of senators to attend parliamentary proceedings whether directly or by remote participation (if available)’, and calling on the executive of all jurisdictions to ‘have appropriate regard to these matters in devising and implementing public health measures’.[219]

3 September

Aged Care Minister censured

The Senate votes to censure the Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians, Senator Richard Colbeck (Lib., Tas), regarding the administration of the aged care sector during the pandemic.[220] That subject had been the focus of opposition questions at Question Time during much of the fortnight, and was also the subject of orders for documents, urgency motions and a motion requiring the minister to attend the Senate to make an explanation on 27 August.[221]

Richard Colbeck

Image Source: Auspic

3 September

A new inquiry into the operation and Management of the Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS)

The Senate refers to its Senate Finance and Public Administration Legislation Committee a wide-ranging inquiry into DPS. The Committee is due to report on  30 June 2021.

4 September

A new Senator for Victoria

Senator Lidia Thorpe is chosen by the Parliament of Victoria to fill the casual vacancy created by the resignation of Richard di Natale. She takes her seat in the Senate on 6 October 2020.[222]

A Djabwurrung Gunnai Gunditjmara woman, Senator Thorpe had previously represented the seat of Northcote in the Victorian Legislative Assembly (2017-18).

Senator Thorpe makes her first speech on 2 December 2020.[223]

Lidia Thorpe

Image source: Auspic

Watch Senator Thorpe’s first speech

4 September

Parliament House to reopen to the Public

The Presiding Officers issue a joint statement that from 7 September 2020, Parliament House will again be open to the public in accordance with the ACT Government’s easing of restrictions. School visits are also able to recommence.[224] 

4 September

Roundtable on the Pacific

The Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade hosts a roundtable on Pacific trade, aid and defence, meeting with diplomatic representatives from Kiribati, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu.[225]

6 September

The Victorian Government releases its ‘roadmap for re-opening’, setting out a plan to move from Stage 4 restrictions to ‘be at COVID Normal by the end of the year’.[226]

12 September

Death of the Hon John Fahey AC

Former NSW Premier and Federal Minister John Fahey dies aged 75.[227] He is farewelled in a State Funeral at St Mary’s Cathedral Sydney on 25 September 2020.^[228]

First elected to the NSW Legislative Assembly in 1984 as the Member for Camden, John Fahey held several portfolios in the Greiner ministry before being appointed Premier in 1992. He served as Premier until the defeat of his government in the 1995 state election. Elected to the Federal Parliament in 1996 for the seat of Macarthur, John Fahey served as Minister for Finance and Administration in the Howard ministry. He retired before the 2001 general election due to illness.

Condolence motions are debated in both Houses when Parliament resumes on 6 October.[229] Speaking to the motion, the Prime Minister says:

John Fahey—like, indeed, Bob Hawke and Tim Fischer—was an Australian original. He mastered state politics, federal politics and world sport, always grounded by a rugged faith that understood the human condition.[230] 

The Leader of the Opposition responds:

He was one of the few to successfully make the transition from state to federal politics. Not one to shy away from a big task, John took on the job of finance minister. He treated the portfolio with the respect, the gravity and the stamina that it demands.[231] 

John Fahey

Image source: Parliament of Australia

Watch the debate on the condolence motion in the House of Representatives

14 September

Arrangements for Budget week

The Presiding Officers determine that restrictions on access and activities put in place for the August sittings will be again in place for the Budget sittings, including the closure of the building to the public.[232]

18 September

Resignation of John McVeigh, member for Groom (Qld)

Former Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh (LNP) announces his immediate resignation from the House of Representatives.[233]

First elected to the Australian Parliament in 2016, Dr McVeigh had previously served in the Queensland Legislative Assembly (representing Toowoomba South) and on the Toowoomba Regional Council.

He is the second generation of his family to be elected member for Groom. His father Daniel McVeigh was a member of the House of Representatives representing Darling Downs/Groom (following a redistribution) from 1972 to 1988.

On 26 October, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tony Smith, issues the writ for the Groom by-election to be held on 28 November 2020.[234]

John McVeigh

Image source: Auspic

18 September

40th anniversary of the Turning of the Sod ceremony

This day is forty years since the Turning of the Sod Ceremony marked the official commencement of the construction of the ‘new’ Australian Parliament House. In his speech on that day, Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser said:

… as the nation grew, and with the Parliament and the demands upon the Parliament, it became increasingly clear that a new building would, in time, be required.[235]

Read: Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser’s speech

27 September

Death of the Hon Susan Ryan AO

Former federal minister and inaugural Age Discrimination Commissioner, Susan Ryan dies aged 77.

Susan Ryan served as Member for Fraser in the 18 member ACT House of Assembly in 1974–5. Campaigning under the slogan ‘a woman’s place is in the Senate’, she was elected in 1975 to one of the two newly established ACT senate seats.[236] She remained in the Senate until her retirement in 1988.

Ryan became the first woman to serve in a federal Labour cabinet when she was appointed to the Hawke ministry in 1983 as Minister for Education and Youth Affairs and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Status of Women. She was ‘pivotal in the passage of the Sex Discrimination Act and Equal Employment Opportunity and the Affirmative Action Act.’[237]

Condolence motions are debated in both Houses when Parliament resumes for its October sittings.[238] Speaking on the condolence motion in the Senate, Minister Mathias Cormann commends Ryan’s ‘extensive legacy of firsts’, her signature achievement [being] the passage of the Sex Discrimination Act 1984’.[239] Senator Penny Wong (ALP SA) says:

It is often said ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’, and yet someone has to go first. Those are the truest of leaders, who have the vision of what is possible, the courage to take on the fight against those vested in the status quo, the intellectual power to craft the strategy and the charisma and humanity to bring people with them. For us, for Labor women, that was Susan Ryan. She could see it: she could see a woman at the cabinet table, and she could see what Australia needed, what Australia needed that woman to achieve, and she made it happen.[240] 

Susan Ryan receives a state funeral on 23 October at St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney.[241]

Susan Ryan

Image source: Parliamentary Handbook

30 September

Upgraded catering facilities open

As part of a broader upgrade of Parliament House kitchens and hospitality areas, the refurbished Staff Dining Room and kitchen opens. During the course of 2020 the main production kitchen, schools and hospitality area, Great Hall kitchen and bar, Queens Terrace Café and Members and Guests Dining Room and kitchens also undergo refurbishment.[242]

2–3 October

Floriade Reimagined

In 2020, Canberra’s annual floral festival, Floriade, is reimagined, moving from its traditional home of Commonwealth Park to bloom across Canberra, including at Parliament House. As part of Floriade Reimagined, Parliament House hosts a NightFest degustation dinner, a spring tea and spring garden tours.[243]

Image source: John O’Neill, Wikimedia Commons

6 October

Parliament resumes to debate the Federal Budget

Parliament resumes for its Budget sittings. As in August, senators and members unable to be physically attend Parliament because of COVID-19 are able to participate via video link.

Due to social distancing requirements, only 80 seats are available in the House of Representatives when Treasurer Josh Frydenberg delivers his Budget speech.[244] Senators watch from the galleries. Before updating the House about the state of the economy and the Government’s major policy measures, he states:

In 2020, Australians have been tested like never before.

Flood, fires, drought, and a global pandemic.

So many Australians, through no fault of their own, are doing it tough.

Lives have been lost.

Businesses have closed.

Jobs have gone.

Our cherished way of life has been put on hold.

Our local heroes, the healthcare workers on the front-line, just as the volunteer firefighters did over summer, are showing us the way. Their courage, commitment, and compassion show the very best of Australia.

Tonight, a grateful nation gives thanks.

These qualities are the invisible strength of Australia.

We are a resilient people, a proud nation and we will get through this together.

The Great Depression and two World Wars did not bring Australia to its knees, and neither will COVID-19.[245]

Analysis of the major measures can be found in the Parliamentary Library’s Budget Review 2020–21 and the Parliamentary Budget Office’s Budget snapshots.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg hands Appropriation Bill no. 1 to the Clerk of the House of Representatives.

Image source: Auspic

8 October

COVID-19 and the Senate

The Senate Procedure Committee tables its second report for 2020, COVID-19 and the Senate.[246]

8 October

The Speech in Reply to the Budget

Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese presents the traditional speech in reply to the Budget in the House of Representatives.[247] His speech sets out his party’s views on the Budget bills and outlines the alternate measures that would be introduced under a Labour government. He states:

[T]he challenge—and the opportunity—facing us now is not just a matter of getting things back to the way they were; we have to aim higher than that, strive for so much more than that. We have a once-in-a-generation chance to rebuild our economy and our country for the better, to launch a recovery that delivers a stronger, fairer and more secure future for all Australians.[248]

Anthony Albanese

Image source: Auspic

10 October

E-petition on the Australian news media

Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd launches an e-petition calling for a Royal Commission ‘to ensure a strong, diverse news media’.[249]

By the time it closes on 4 November, the petition has received 501,876 signatures,[250] making it the largest e-petition, though not the Parliament’s largest petition. (The record was set in 2014 when a petition on funding for community pharmacies attracted over 1,210,000 signatures.)[251]

The petition is presented to the House of Representatives on 9 November by the Member for Fenner, Dr Andrew Leigh (ALP, ACT).[252] On 11 November, the Senate refers to its Environment and Communications References Committee an Inquiry into Media Diversity in Australia. The reporting date is 4 August 2021.[253]

Kevin Rudd

Image source: Auspic

Watch the petition being presented to Parliament

15 October

Presiding Officers’ Statement regarding access arrangements for the October sittings

Following consultations between Presiding Officers and relevant health authorities, the Presiding Officers issue a statement regarding the operations of Parliament House during the October sittings. Parliament House will again close to the public and for events, with access restrictions also in place for certain groups of passholders. Parliamentarians’ staff are asked not to travel to Canberra unless it is ‘absolutely essential’. Mask wearing is ‘strongly recommended’ in circulation areas. Special access and cleaning arrangements are to be implemented for Senate Estimates.[254]

19 October

Statement on the condition of Parliament House

The Speaker presents to the House of Representatives a statement regarding the condition of Parliament House.[255] It is the sixth such statement issued in fulfillment of a recommendation by the Senate Finance and Public Administration Legislation Committee in its Report on the performance of the Department of Parliamentary Services (2012).

23 October

A new Parliamentary Budget Officer

The Presiding officers announce the appointment of Dr Stein Helgeby as the new Parliamentary Budget Officer.[256]

Stein Helgeby

Image source: Auspic

27 October

Motion

On the motion of the Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese, the House of Representatives commends the people of Victoria on their achievements in overcoming the second wave of COVID-19.[257] The motion is seconded by the Deputy Leader of the Opposition, and the Prime Minister and the Treasurer speak in support.

Watch the debate on the motion

28 October

National memorial service

The Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition make statements on indulgence regarding the National Memorial Service for Fire and Emergency Service Workers.[258] Due to the pandemic, the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council live-streams its annual service.

3 November

Presiding Officers’ Statement regarding ongoing APH access

The Presiding Officers issue a joint statement regarding access arrangements for Parliament House to apply for sitting and non-sitting weeks.

The building is again open to the public in accordance with the ACT Government’s COVID-19 restrictions; access to the public galleries is reinstated (with limited numbers), and events and school visits are able to re-commence.[259]

The changes to ACT Government restrictions enabled greater attendance by parliamentarians during the 9–12 November sittings; no contributions will be made via video link in the House of Representatives.[260] Over 130 members and 68 Senators attend in person over the sitting fortnight.[261]

9 November

25th anniversary of the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin

The House of Representatives debates a motion in the House of Representatives noting that 4 November marked 25 years since Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated at an anti-violence rally.[262] A similar motion is passed in the Senate on 3 December.[263]

9 and 10 November

Statement on indulgence

On 9 November the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition make statements on indulgence on the US Presidential election, congratulating President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.[264]

On 10 November, Darren Chester, Minister for Veterans Affairs, makes the fourth annual statement on Veterans and their Families.[265] Opposition Spokesman Shane Neumann (Blair, Qld) speaks in response, and debate is then referred to the Federation Chamber.[266]

Watch the statements on indulgence on the US election

Watch the ministerial statement and response on veterans and their families.

10 November

Senate rejects motion to display the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags

The Senate rejects a motion, moved by Senators Anne Urquhart (ALP, Tas.), Patrick Dodson (ALP, WA) and Lidia Thorpe, to display the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags in the Senate chamber alongside the Australian flag.

11 November

Remembrance Day

A short, ticketed ceremony is held in the Great Hall at Parliament House to mark Remembrance Day.

Image source: Auspic

11 November

45th anniversary of the dismissal of the Whitlam Government

This date marks 45 years since the 1975 dismissal of the Whitlam Government by Governor-General Sir John Kerr, one of the most dramatic events in Australian political history. The July 2020 release of correspondence between Governor‑General Kerr and Buckingham Palace, known as the Palace Letters, provided fresh insight into this controversial period.[267]

Read: Parliamentary Library FlagPost

12 November

Centenary of the expulsion of Hugh Mahon

Tony Burke, on indulgence, makes a statement marking the 100th anniversary of the expulsion the member for Kalgoorlie Hugh Mahon from the House of Representatives for ‘seditious and disloyal utterances’.[268] Mahon’s seat was declared vacant and he was defeated at the by-election by George James Foley.

This was the only occasion on which either House of the Commonwealth Parliament expelled one of its members. However, it was not until the enactment of the Parliamentary Privileges Act 1987 that the Houses lost their power to do so.[269]

Hugh Mahon

Image source: Parliamentary Handbook

15 November

Death of former minister Chris Hurford

Former Minister Chris Hurford AO dies. Chris Hurford (ALP, Adelaide, SA) served as a Minister from 1983 to 1987, as Minister Assisting the Treasurer and in the Housing and Construction, Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, and Community Services portfolios.

Condolence motions are debated in the House of Representatives and the Senate on 17 March 2021, enabling many of Mr Hurford’s family members to attend.[270]

Chris Hurford

Image source: Auspic

16-21 November

South Australia implements restrictions and lockdowns following a small outbreak of cases in Adelaide. Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia close their borders to SA.

19 November

Death of Dame Margaret Guilfoyle

The Liberal Party announces the death of Dame Margaret Guilfoyle at the age of 94.[271]

Dame Margaret (Lib.) represented Victoria in the Senate between 1971 and 1987, retiring prior to the General Election that year.

She was the first woman to hold a federal Cabinet portfolio­,[272] and became the first woman to hold a major economic ministry when appointed Minister for Finance by Prime Minister Malcom Fraser. Not until 2010 would another woman, Senator Penny Wong, be appointed to that office.

As Minister for Social Security, Dame Margaret oversaw significant reforms to child endowment/family allowance and childcare.

Speaking on the condolence motion in the Senate, Minister for Finance Simon Birmingham described Dame Margaret as a woman who ‘had made an extraordinary and leading contribution to shape the modern Australia that we live in today’.[273] Senator Wong remarked:

Dame Margaret recognised the role she played as one of the first few women to enter this place and then to hold significant office. But to her the more significant matter was that she would ensure that it was more acceptable in the future for positions of responsibility to be handled by women. In her valedictory remarks several years later she said:

‘It was said that I was the first to hold a Cabinet post and administer a department—that might be true—but it had to be very important that I was not the last.’^[274]

The Hon Dame Margaret Guilfoyle, AC DBE

Image source: Auspic

26 November

COVID-19 Statement by the Presiding Officers

Speaker Tony Smith and President Scott Ryan issue a statement regarding ongoing access to Parliament House ahead of the final sitting weeks.[275]

28 November

Groom by-election

Triggered by the resignation of former Minister John McVeigh, the by-election for the Queensland regional seat of Groom is held on 28 November. As was the case with the Eden-Monaro by-election, COVID-19 related safety measures are put in place for voters, AEC staff and other participants.[276]

The seat is comfortably won by LNP candidate Garth Hamilton with 67.19 per cent of the vote (two candidate preferred).[277]

The new member is sworn into the House of Representatives on 3 December 2020.[278]

Garth Hamilton

Image source: Auspic

30 November

Prime Minister attends Parliament via video link

The Government and Opposition agree changes to the ‘Agreement for Members to Contribute Remotely to Parliamentary Proceedings’ to enable Prime Minister Morrison to attend remotely from The Lodge.[279] The Prime Minister is in quarantine in his official residence following an official visit to Japan.

Image source: Auspic

30 November

A new senator for Western Australia

Senator Benjamin Small (Lib.) takes his seat in the Senate.

Senator Small was chosen by the Parliament of Western Australia to fill the casual vacancy caused by the resignation of Senator Mathias Cormann on 6 November.

Benjamin Small

Image source: Auspic

2 December

New web resource: Senate committee system

The Department of the Senate launches two new web resources to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Senate’s committee system.

Navigate Senate Committees provides a timeline of developments in the committee system since 1901 and charts the genealogy and history of individual committees since that time.

The Senate committees hearing map illustrates the work of committees conducting hearings across the country—over 7,500 hearings are mapped by year and subject.

Watch the launch of ‘Senate Committees celebrating 50 years’.

2 December

Sir Edmund Barton: Australia’s first Prime Minister

The Presiding Officers launch a new exhibition at Parliament House celebrating the life and times of Sir Edmund Barton, Australia’s first Prime Minister.

The exhibition includes a rarely displayed photographic portrait of each individual member of the first Commonwealth Parliament. Other key items associated with Sir Edmund Barton have been loaned to Australian Parliament House from a range of institutions.

The launch is followed by a Parliamentary Library lecture on Barton by Dr David Headon.

The exhibition will run until February 2021.

Image source: Norman Carter (1875-1963) The Rt Hon. Sir Edmund Barton GCMG KC (detail), 1913, Historic Memorials Collection, Parliament House Art Collection, Department of Parliamentary Services, Canberra, ACT

2 December

Christmas Giving Tree

The Presiding Officers light the Parliament’s Giving Tree which is placed in the public foyer every Christmas to raise money for charity.

Image source: Auspic

7 December

The House must go on!

Chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Procedure Ross Vasta (LNP, Bonner, Qld) presents the Report of the inquiry into the practices and procedures put in place by the House in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.[280]

Ross Vasta

Image source: Auspic

8 December

George Reid, Australia’s fourth Prime Minister

Senate President Scott Ryan launches the Parliamentary Library’s book on George Reid written by Canberra historian Dr David Headon.[281]

Scottish born George Reid holds a unique position among Australian political leaders, having been a representative in colonial, Commonwealth and British legislatures.[282]

The work is part of the First Eight project on Australia’s early Prime Ministers.

Dr David Headon, Senate President Scott Ryan and DPS Secretary Rob Stefanic at the launch

Image source: Auspic

9 December

ACT and NT changes to parliamentary representation

The Electoral Amendment (Territory Representation) Bill passes the Parliament.

The bill changes the method for determining the number of seats in the House of Representatives for the ACT and NT, setting aside the Electoral Commissioner’s July determination and restoring the NT’s second seat.[283] While similar in purpose to the private bill introduced by NT Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, the Government’s bill reflects the deliberations of the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters’ inquiry.[284]

The Bill receives royal assent on 15 December.

10 December

Member for Lingiari to retire

The Member for Lingiari Warren Snowdon (ALP, NT) announces his retirement from politics at the next general election.[285]

First elected to the House of Representatives for the Northern Territory in 1987, Mr Snowdon held the seat until his defeat at the 1996 general elections. He was returned to the House of Representatives as the member for Lingiari in 2001 and returned at each subsequent election. He served in the Hawke, Keating, Rudd and Gillard ministries. 

Warren Snowdon

Image source: Auspic

18 December

Ministerial reshuffle

Prime Minister Morrison announces changes to his ministry, consequent upon the retirement of Matthias Cormann.[286]

Dan Tehan (Lib., Wannon, Vic) is appointed Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment. Aged care is elevated to Cabinet with Greg Hunt (previously Minister for Health) appointed Minister for Health and Aged Care. Minister Hunt is given responsibility for the Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.

Other changes include the appointment of Alan Tudge (Lib., Aston, Vic) as Minister for Education and Youth and Alex Hawke (Lib., Mitchell, NSW) as Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs. Former immigration minister David Coleman (Lib., Banks, NSW) becomes Assistant Minister for the Prime Minister for mental health and suicide prevention. Andrew Hastie (Lib., Canning, WA) and Amanda Stoker (Lib., Qld) are appointed to assistant minister roles in the Defence and Attorney-General portfolios.

The new Ministry is sworn in on 22 December. For the first time the ceremony is conducted via video-conference due to COVID-19 related travel restrictions.[287]

Scott Morrison and Governor-General David Hurley pose alongside the new cabinet, which appeared via video link. Image: NCA NewsWire/Gary Ramage

Read the updated Ministry List

18 December

Death of Major General the Hon Michael Jeffery AC, AO (Mil), CVO, MC 

Australia’s 24th Governor General, Michael Jeffery, dies aged 83. Current Governor-General David Hurley issues a statement describing him as, ‘by every measure, a great Australian’.[288]

General Jeffery was sworn in as Governor-General in August 2003, having previously served as Governor of Western Australia (1993-2000).

General Jefferey had previously had a distinguished military career (1953–1992), retiring as Assistant Chief of the General Staff for Materiel.

General Jeffery is farewelled at a state funeral in Canberra on 29 December 2020.[289]

Major General the Hon Michael Jeffery AC, AO (Mil), CVO, MC 

Image source: Auspic

19 December

The NSW Government introduces new restrictions and border controls for the Northern Beaches, and progressively extends these to the greater Sydney region as COVID-19 clusters emerge in January. Other jurisdictions re-introduce travel restrictions for people in the affected areas.[290]

20 December

Death of the Right Honourable John Douglas (Doug) Anthony AC, CH

Former Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Federal Parliamentary Country Party/National Party, Doug Anthony, dies aged 90.

Doug Anthony was first elected to the House of Representatives as member for Richmond in 1957, winning the seat in a by-election following the sudden death of his father, Hubert Anthony, the sitting member. In 1996, his son, Larry Anthony, would become the third generation of the family to represent this seat in the federal Parliament.

Doug Anthony held the seat of Richmond until his retirement from the Parliament in 1984, serving in the Menzies, Holt, McEwen, Gorton, McMahon and Fraser ministries.

In a statement upon Anthony’s death, Nationals Leader Michael McCormack paid tribute to his achievements, particularly his commitment to country Australia, and his achievements in expanding trade, particularly with Japan and China, and noted:

He was a man of decency, integrity, purpose and resolve. Tales of him in the capacity of Acting Prime Minister and leading the country from his caravan on the New South Wales North Coast make up the political fabric of our party and our nation.[291]

Doug Anthony

Image source: Auspic

23 December

Parliamentary Handbook published online

The Parliamentary Library publishes The 46th Parliament: Parliamentary Handbook of the Commonwealth of Australia online. The hard copy version follows soon afterwards. The Parliamentary Handbook provides detailed information about the Parliament, including the parliamentary service and political careers of Senators and Members, details of elections, and historical information.

31 December

COVID-19 Tally

Due to the outbreak of COVID-19 cases in NSW, Victoria and SA close their borders with that state, Western Australia closes its border to both Victoria and NSW.

As at 3 pm on 31 December, Australia has recorded of 28,408 COVID-19 cases, 909 deaths, and 217 active cases. Seventy-eight percent of cases are locally acquired.[292] 

As of 27 December, the World Health Organisation reports 79,231,893 COVID-19 cases and 1,754,574 deaths have been reported globally.[293]

Aged Care Amendment (Aged Care Recipient Classification) Act 2020

A Grove, Bills Digest

Amends the Aged Care Act 1997 to introduce an additional, discretionary procedure for classification of recipients of residential aged care and some kinds of flexible care from 1 March 2021.

Export Control Act 2020

P Pyburne, Bills Digest

Introduced with the Export Control (Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Act 2020, the Act streamlines and consolidates existing legislation to create a new framework for regulating the export of goods, including agricultural products and food, from Australian territory.

Broadcasting Services Amendment (Regional Commercial Radio and Other Measures) Act 2020

P Dearman, Bills Digest

To amend the Broadcasting Services Act 1992 to relax some elements of the local content obligations currently placed on regional commercial radio and television broadcast licensees by the Act.

Coronavirus Economic Response Package Omnibus Act 2020

Part of a package of 8 Acts to respond to the economic impacts of the coronavirus: Coronavirus Economic Response Package Omnibus Act 2020, Guarantee of Lending to Small and Medium Enterprises (Coronavirus Economic Response Package) Act 2020, Australian Business Growth Fund (Coronavirus Economic Response Package) Act 2020, Assistance for Severely Affected Regions (Special Appropriation) (Coronavirus Economic Response Package) Act 2020, Structured Finance Support (Coronavirus Economic Response Package) Act 2020, Appropriation (Coronavirus Economic Response Package) Act (No. 1) 2019-2020, Appropriation (Coronavirus Economic Response Package) Act (No. 2) 2019-2020, Boosting Cash Flow for Employers (Coronavirus Economic Response Package) Act 2020

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Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment (Extension of Coronavirus Support) Act 2020

M Klapdor, Bills Digest

Amends the Social Security Act 1991 to, among other things, extend the COVID-19 supplement to 31 March 2021 for all persons in receipt of youth allowance.

Competition and Consumer Amendment (Australian Consumer Law - Country of Origin Representations) Act 2020

J Murphy, Bills Digest

Amends the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 to widen the definition of what constitutes the ‘substantial transformation’ of goods for the purposes of ‘safe harbour’ provisions relating to country of origin representations. This is a step ‘towards implementing the Government's commitment to establish robust country of origin labelling laws for Australian made complementary medicines’.

Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2020

C Barker, Bills Digest

Among other things: amends the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006 to expand the circumstances in which reporting entities may rely on customer identification undertaken by a third party and explicitly prohibit reporting entities from providing a designated service if customer identification procedures cannot be performed.

Defence Legislation Amendment (Enhancement of Defence Force Response to Emergencies) Act 2020

K Elphick and D Watt, Bills Digest

The measures in this Act are intended to enhance the government’s ability to provide Defence Assistance to the Civil Community in relation to natural disasters and other emergencies.

Student Identifiers Amendment (Higher Education) Act 2020

H Ferguson, Bills Digest

This Act gives effect to the 2019–20 Budget commitment to extend the Unique Student Identifier to higher education to simplify access to education and training records for students.

National Emergency Declaration Act 2020

Introduced with the National Emergency Declaration (Consequential Amendments) Act 2020 to implement a recommendation of the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements. It establishes a framework for the declaration of a national emergency by the Governor-General, on the advice of the Prime Minister and enables the Prime Minister to require Commonwealth entities to report on available stockpiles, assets and resources, and options and recommendations to respond to a national emergency.

National Skills Commissioner Act 2020

H Ferguson, Bills Digest

Establishes the office of the National Skills Commissioner to provide advice and collect, analyse, share and publish data on Australia’s workforce skills needs, efficient prices for vocational education and training (VET) courses, the public and private return on government investment in VET.

Paid Parental Leave Amendment (Flexibility Measures) Act 2020

D Arthur and D Markham, Bills Digest

Amends the Paid Parental Leave Act 2010 to implement changes to the paid parental leave scheme to enable eligible claimants to claim up to 30 days of parental leave pay (PLP) within 24 months of the birth or adoption of a child, in addition to 12 weeks of PLP within 12 months of the child's birth or adoption.

Financial Sector Reform (Hayne Royal Commission Response—Protecting Consumers (2019 Measures)) Act 2020

P Pyburne, Bills Digest

To implement recommendations 4.7 and 4.2 of the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry and amend the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009 and the National Consumer Credit Protection (Transitional and Consequential Provisions) Act 2009 Act) to require mortgage brokers to act in the best interests of consumers and address conflicted remuneration for mortgage brokers.

Foreign Investment Reform (Protecting Australia’s National Security) Act 2020

J Murphy, Flagpost

The Act amends the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act 1975 to improve and update the operation of Australia’s foreign investment framework in relation to national security, compliance monitoring and enforcement and integrity, while remaining welcoming and open to foreign investment.

Australia’s Foreign Relations (State and Territory Arrangements) Act 2020

Introduced with the Australia’s Foreign Relations (State and Territory Arrangements) (Consequential Amendments) Bill 2020, the Act establishes a legislative scheme for Commonwealth engagement with arrangements between State or Territory governments and foreign governments, and their associated entities.

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Amendment Act 2020

C Barker, J Ayoub, D Markham, K Ramesh, Bills Digest

Among other things to implement the government's response to the report of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security into ASIO's questioning and detention powers by amending the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979 in relation to compulsory questioning powers and tracking devices

Social Security (Administration) Amendment (Continuation of Cashless Welfare) Act 2020

D Arthur and J Ayoub, Bills Digest

The Act will, among other things, establish the Cashless Debit Card as an ongoing program rather than a time-limited trial and to transition Income Management in the Northern Territory and the Cape York region to the Cashless Debit Card.

Sport Integrity Australia Amendment (World Anti-Doping Code Review) Act 2020

K Elphick, Bills Digest

Among other things the Act amends the Sports Integrity Australia Act 2020 to implement revisions to the World Anti-Doping Code by introducing a new category of person (non-participant) who may be subject to the National Anti-Doping Scheme, and amending the definition of athlete to include persons who competed in sport within the last six months.

Veterans' Affairs Legislation Amendment (Supporting the Wellbeing of Veterans and Their Families) Act 2020

N Brangwin and M Klapdor, Bills Digest

Among other things, to create a new commissioner known as the Veteran Family Advocate who will be a member of the Repatriation Commission and the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission to represent the perspectives of families of veterans.