The age-old tradition of citizens lodging petitions with their local MPs for tabling in Parliament is to be reviewed by the House of Representatives’ Standing Committee on Petitions.
Chair of the Petitions Committee, Lucy Wicks said the committee wanted petitioning the House of Representatives to be accessible and relevant to all Australians.
“Petitioning is an important part of our democratic process,” Mrs Wicks said.
“Creating or signing a petition gives people a direct link to seek action from the Parliament on an issue they care about.
“This inquiry will give people the opportunity to have their say on what petitioning should look like, including what action should be taken on a petition after it is presented to the House.”
She said the inquiry would review all aspects of petitioning, including the role and operations of the Petitions Committee and the rules for petitioning the House.
The committee would also consider how Parliaments around Australia and overseas facilitated petitioning.
“With more than 600 petitions approved so far during this Parliament, it is clear that people want their voices heard by Parliament and Government,” Mrs Wicks said.
“The committee is listening to these voices and wants to ensure they continue to be heard into the future.”
She said submissions would be accepted until 12 October.
Information about the committee’s inquiry and how to lodge a submission can be accessed at this PS News link.
