Approximately how many bills are introduced in Parliament and passed each year?
That's an interesting question, Indy.
On average the government introduces 140 bills – proposed laws – in Parliament each year. Nearly all these bills – about 95% – are passed by the Parliament, although sometimes only after the government agrees to amendments – changes – to the bill.
While the government introduces most bills, the opposition, crossbench and government backbenchers can introduce private bills in both the Senate and House of Representatives.
Each year, about 20 private bills are introduced in the Senate and a few in the House of Representatives. It is rare for these bills to pass the Parliament unless they have cross-party support because the government usually has the majority in the House.
Statistics on bills introduced into and passed by the Parliament each year can be found on the Australian Parliament House website.
A senator speaking in the Senate
DPS Auspic
A senator speaking in the Senate
DPS Auspic
Description
A senator standing up at her desk to give a speech in the Senate. Another 6 senators remain in their rows of seats, but have turned towards the senator who is speaking to listen.
When giving speeches in the Senate, senators:
- represent the views of the people of their state or territory
- have their say on bills – proposed laws – and other matters
- scrutinise – closely examining – the work of the government
- discuss important Australian or international issues.
Permission should be sought from DPS AUSPIC for third-party or commercial uses of this image. To contact DPS AUSPIC email: auspic@aph.gov.au or phone: 02 6277 3342.