Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations) Share this | Hansard source

President, I rise on behalf of the opposition to congratulate you on your re-election today in accordance with, as Senator Wong has stated, the longstanding convention in this place that the party of government nominates the President of the Senate. As you are well aware, this is a position of great responsibility—one that is at the heart of the traditions, dignity and proper functioning of this chamber and of the wider parliamentary democracy.

The President of the Senate has a unique and significant duty within our system of government. As President, you are entrusted with maintaining order in the chamber, ensuring that the standing orders are properly observed and upholding the long-established rules and conventions that give this place its authority. In fulfilling this responsibility, it is incumbent upon you in the role to act with impartiality and fairness, allowing the Senate to debate with vigour and passion while ensuring that decorum is maintained and that all senators, regardless of party or persuasion, are heard in accordance with the rules.

You are also the guardian of the rights and privileges of this chamber and of its members. We are all aware that that is no small responsibility. The proper functioning of this place depends not only on robust debate but also on the confidence of all senators that their rights will be respected and protected. It is through your stewardship that this confidence must be reinforced.

The opposition affirms our commitment to supporting the proper conduct of the Senate's business. While our duty requires us to hold the government to account, we equally recognise our responsibility to ensure that this Senate operates as it should—as a house of review, a forum for the states and a vital part of Australia's democratic fabric. Again, congratulations, President, on behalf of the opposition.