House of Reps Summary for 22/07/2025

House of Representatives Proceedings – July 22, 2025

Opening of Parliament

• The House convened at 10:30 AM after a proclamation by the Governor-General (Page 1).
• Members were invited to the Senate chamber by the Usher of the Black Rod, then returned to the House.

Parliamentary Representation

• The Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance was administered to new members by Hon. Michelle Gordon AC, Justice of the High Court (Page 1).
• Returns for the election held on May 3, 2025, were presented.
• Notable members sworn in included Xian-Zhi Soon (Banks), Ash Ambihaipahar (Barton), Jerome Alain Laxale (Bennelong), and Julian Leeser (Berowra) (Page 1).

Election of Speaker

• Ms. Joanne Ryan (ALP) nominated Milton Dick (Oxley) for Speaker, citing his experience and commitment to civics education (Page 4).
• Mr. Michael McCormack (National Party) seconded the nomination, supporting Dick’s qualifications (Page 5).
• Dick was elected unanimously as Speaker after no other nominations were made.

Governor-General’s Speech

• The Governor-General’s Speech was acknowledged by Speaker Dick, who reported the Governor-General’s desire for member presence (Page 11).
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese introduced new ministers and presented the full roster of the Cabinet (Page 11).

Shadow Ministry Announcement

• Sussan Ley, Leader of the Opposition, announced her election as leader of the Liberal Party and outlined the shadow ministers’ lineup (Page 14).
• Emphasis was placed on the role of the opposition in fostering debate and effectively representing the Australian populace.

Civic Education and Representation

• Various members underscored the importance of civics education and outreach to schools, highlighting efforts to enhance parliamentary representation (Pages 1 to 14).

Leadership Announcements

• David Littleproud MP announced his election as leader of the Nationals party, with appointments for deputy leaders and whips (Page 16).

Legislative Business

• The Therapeutic Goods Amendment Bill 2025 was introduced for its first reading and scheduled for a second reading by Mr. Albanese (Page 16).
• The Governor-General’s Speech outlined the government’s agenda, emphasizing economic growth, healthcare, and addressing inflation (Page 16).

Address-in-Reply

• Anthony Albanese MP moved for a committee to prepare an address related to the Governor-General’s speech, reflecting themes of leadership and collaboration (Page 23).

Election of Deputy Speaker

• Susan Templeman MP nominated Ms. Claydon for Deputy Speaker, highlighting her qualifications (Page 23).
• Support for Claydon was voiced by Tim Watts MP and Mr. Wallace, praising her contributions and experience (Pages 23-24).
• Ms. Claydon was elected Deputy Speaker with 98 votes (Page 26).

Questions and Discussions

• Dan Tehan MP raised issues regarding conduct during a joint sitting in the Senate, calling for action (Page 26).
• Ongoing legal matters concerning a petition filed in the High Court related to electoral issues in the Bradfield division were discussed (Page 26).
• Tony Burke MP introduced a notice advocating for the reduction of student debt in line with Labor’s educational accessibility commitments (Page 26).

Community Themes

• Members shared personal stories connecting to their constituencies, focusing on community values, social justice, and educational inequality.

Adjournment

• The House adjourned after a day of significant legislative progress, with Mr. Burke affirming enhanced representation in parliament, allowing constituents to see themselves reflected in their leadership (Page 42).