The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Procedure has presented the report of its Inquiry into disrespectful behaviour towards other Members in the Chamber.
The inquiry built on work undertaken in previous parliaments to raise the standard of behaviour in Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces. While progress has been made, cultural change is not a project with a defined end. It is the responsibility of all Members to uphold and promote high standards of behaviour, including in the House of Representatives Chamber. It is a public forum where ideas are tested, elected representatives advocate for their constituents, and governments are held to account. Parliamentary privilege—including freedom of speech—is fundamental to the effective operation of the House. With that privilege comes a responsibility to engage with others respectfully.
‘Robust debate and respectful conduct are not competing principles, but complementary’, said Chair, Ms Sharon Claydon MP. ‘The core principle of freedom of speech is entirely compatible with the values of courtesy, dignity and mutual respect’.
The behaviour of parliamentarians in the Chamber is not an issue that is unique to the House of Representatives. As part of this inquiry, the committee heard from Members from across the House, Presiding Officers, Clerks, parliamentary officials, and representatives of other Australian and international parliaments whose evidence helped shape the committee’s recommendations.
A key question for this inquiry was the application of the Behaviour Code for Australian Parliamentarians to Members’ behaviour in the Chamber. The Code was adopted as a continuing resolution of the House in 2024. The committee is satisfied that the Code applies to Members’ conduct in the House. However, evidence received by the committee revealed a lack of clarity around how the Code applies and how it is enforced.
The committee has recommended a series of practical measures to support consistent understanding and application of the Code in the House. Recommendations include enhanced induction and refresher training and guidance for all Members, and additional support for new Members. The committee has also recommended tailored training for the Speaker’s panel, in recognition of their unique position presiding over the House.
Ms Claydon said, ‘Cultural change is not static but an ongoing process requiring consistent commitment, reflection and action by all Members. We should all strive to meet the high standards that Australians expect of us in our work and our conduct. The standing orders, established House practice, and the Code collectively provide us with a robust framework. The recommendations in this report reinforce this framework, fostering a parliamentary culture that balances mutual respect and robust debate.’
A full copy of the report and further information about the inquiry is available on the committee’s website.
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