Why do we need a Leader of the Opposition in the Senate and a Leader of the Government in the Senate?

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The Leader of the Government in the Senate and the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate play a key role in making sure their team is represented and active in the Senate. 

There are members of the government and opposition in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The leader of the government – the prime minister – and the Leader of the Opposition are members of the House of Representatives and so cannot participate in debates or answer questions in the Senate – only senators can do this. This is why the government and opposition need leaders in the Senate.

The Leader of the Government in the Senate and the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate are each chosen by their party or parties to lead them in the Senate. They act as the main spokesperson for their team in the Senate and answer or ask questions during Question Time. While the leaders sit at the main table of the Senate, they do not have the same powers as the prime minister or the Leader of the Opposition.