The second Annual Report on the implementation of recommendations from the Set the Standard report.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 7 February 2024

Today, on the second anniversary of the adoption of the Set the Standard report, we acknowledge that an unacceptably high rate of people, particularly women, in Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces have experienced bullying, sexual harassment, or actual or attempted sexual assault whilst at work. This misconduct is unacceptable, and we acknowledge the grave impact it had or continues to have on previous and current staff. For two years, the Parliamentary Leadership Taskforce has led the implementation of the Set the Standard reforms. The Parliament thanks the Taskforce for their continuous work and leadership. Today, we recommit the Parliament to positive change, and acknowledge achievements to date, including: Establishing the Parliamentary Workplace Support Service as a statutory body, offering independent and confidential support to everyone in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces. Reforms to modernise the Members of Parliament Act to ensure employees are protected from discrimination, as well as refreshed professional development and improved management practices. Undertaking reviews to further enhance inclusivity and dignity of access of Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces. Endorsing clear and consistent Codes of Conduct with consultations on the proposed Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission expected to commence shortly. Supporting the health and wellbeing of parliamentarians and staff with enhanced wellbeing services. Improving work health and safety, with a new framework to manage shared risks. Additional professional development opportunities to support leaders at all levels, particularly induction programs and training on safe and respectful workplaces. While significant progress has been made, the journey towards truly respectful and inclusive Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces is ongoing. Cultural change will only come with the goodwill of parliamentarians. We must remain committed to building a workplace reflecting the nation’s values and expectations, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone who works in, and supports the Parliament of Australia.

The façade of Australian Parliament House will be illuminated this evening in blue and white, the colours of the Israeli flag.

Media release issue date: Monday, 9 October 2023

The façade of Australian Parliament House will be illuminated this evening in blue and white, the colours of the Israeli flag. This is in line with the other significant buildings and monuments across the country.

Australian Parliament House’s façade will be sporting green and gold this Sunday and Monday night with a striking illumination to show support for our mighty Matildas in the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Media release issue date: Friday, 4 August 2023

Australian Parliament House’s façade will be sporting green and gold this Sunday and Monday night with a striking illumination to show support for our mighty Matildas in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The President of the Senate, the Hon. Sue Lines and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon. Milton Dick MP are proud to be supporting the FIFA Women’s World Cup by illuminating the nation’s parliament. “We are delighted to shine the light on women’s sport. The Matildas are wonderful role models for our next generation of athletes and Parliament House will be cheering them on when they play Monday night,” says President Sue Lines. “Sport has always had a way of uniting Australians, and the Matildas are part of this history. And what better way to recognise this, than by lighting up our iconic Australian Parliament House,” says Speaker Milton Dick. The green and gold illumination of Parliament House for the Matildas will be on Sunday 6 August and Monday 7 August from 5.45pm to midnight. All are welcome to come along to the Parliament House forecourt and show your support for Australia’s Matildas! For media enquiries please contact: Sofia Wilson 0437 084 054 Office of the President of the Senate Natalie van Dartel 0418 149 761 Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives

The national significance and the importance of the Australian flag cannot be overstated. We are aware of the unacceptable condition of the current Australian Flag flying above Parliament House.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 8 March 2023

The national significance and the importance of the Australian flag cannot be overstated. We are aware of the unacceptable condition of the current Australian Flag flying above Parliament House.  In regular conditions, the Australian flag that flies above Parliament House is changed approximately every four weeks – typically the first Wednesday of each month.  Recently, Canberra has experienced high winds and thunderstorms. Changing the flag is a dangerous and complex undertaking due to the sheer size of the flag and the high wind conditions at that elevation. Weather conditions must be favourable to ensure a safe changeover can take place. Recent weather conditions have posed an unacceptable risk to the safety for personnel to replace the current flag.  When there was an opportunity for staff to safely ascend the pole, the lift mechanism experienced a mechanical fault.  The transport mechanism is urgently undergoing maintenance and the flag changeover will occur as soon as it is possible and safe to do so.

The first Annual Report on the implementation of recommendations from the Set the Standard report

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 8 February 2023

First, we want to acknowledge and reiterate the Set the Standard report findings – that an unacceptably high rate of people, particularly women, in Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces experienced bullying, sexual harassment, or actual or attempted sexual assault whilst at work. This misconduct is unacceptable, and we acknowledge the grave impact it had or continues to have on previous and current staff.  While we commend the progress this Parliament has made, we note that there is still much more work to be done to achieve the goals we set twelve months ago. We want to uphold the highest standards of workplace behaviour in line with what is expected of us by the Australian public.  Since the Set the Standard report was adopted by this Parliament one year ago, the composition of this parliament has changed. In the 2022 election, we saw the numbers of women increase, as well as the numbers of those Parliamentarians elected as independents without the support of a traditional political party.  These changes to the composition of parliament have no doubt brought its own cultural change. However, the report’s findings remain as relevant as ever to all Parliamentarians and their staff. The Set the Standard report provided a roadmap for the Parliament to implement systemic and cultural changes in a range of areas to make Parliament House and Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces safe and respectful places to work.  Over the past twelve months, leaders from across the parliament and departments have responded to the report to progress the 28 recommendations. The Set the Standard report categorised 28 recommendations by five outcomes: leadership diversity, equality and inclusion systems to support performance standards, reporting and accountability, and safety and wellbeing. Of the 28 recommendations, 6 have already been implemented, 4 have been partly implemented, and 17 are in-progress (noting many are ongoing measures).  Implementing the 28 recommendations is a shared responsibility across Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces, including government, Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments, political parties, and parliamentarians.  Change will come with the continuous commitment and goodwill of Members and Senators. Today we re-commit ourselves with concerted effort and attention to the recommendations of the Set the Standard review. Over the next 12 months we should see: The expansion of the Parliamentary Workplace Support Service to be established as an independent statutory human resources entity providing advice and training to parliamentarians and staff. The endorsement of Codes of Conduct for all Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces. The introduction of improved health and wellbeing services, including General Practitioner services, pharmaceutical and mental health supports. The consideration of amendments to standing orders and conventions to improve levels of safety and respect in the Chamber. The modernisation of the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 (MOP(S) Act. We acknowledge the leadership and commitment of many people for the work completed to date, including the Parliamentary Leadership Taskforce, as well as the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader and other party leaders.  The nation is looking to this Parliament to show leadership in this space, and the expectation is that we will deliver. 

On the first anniversary of the Sex Discrimination Commissioner’s Set the Standard Report on the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces (Set the Standard report), as Presiding Officers, we again, acknowledge the history of unacceptable behaviour in Parliament House and recommit the Parliament to positive change.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 1 December 2022

On the first anniversary of the Sex Discrimination Commissioner’s Set the Standard Report on the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces (Set the Standard report), as Presiding Officers, we again, acknowledge the history of unacceptable behaviour in Parliament House and recommit the Parliament to positive change. The Set the Standard report highlighted that a high rate of people, particularly women, in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces have experienced bullying, sexual harassment, or actual or attempted sexual assault. This is unacceptable. We restate the commitment of the Parliament to making lasting change to ensure this does not continue. We all have an ongoing responsibility to creating a workplace that attracts and supports the best people our country has to offer. The Parliamentary Leadership Taskforce is leading meaningful change within the Parliament, and we commend their commitment in understanding and addressing the issues that have been ignored for too long. Since February, there has already been significant progress in implementing the 28 recommendations of the report: Legislation has been amended to clarify our duties in respect of employment, antidiscrimination and work health and safety laws. Proposed Codes of Conduct have been developed for parliamentarians, staff, and parliamentary workplaces. Changes to the sitting calendar and hours of sitting now consider wellbeing, balance, and flexibility. New parliamentarians and their staff have participated in refreshed induction processes. A feasibility study into a Parliamentary Health and Wellbeing Service is being conducted, with plans to improve services for parliamentarians and staff including General Practitioner services, pharmaceutical and mental health supports. Work is underway to improve work health and safety, accessibility for those with disability and professional support available for parliamentarians and their staff. The Parliamentary Workplace Support Service has been expanded. It is already providing confidential support and advice to those in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces. The Senate and House Procedure Committee are examining standing orders and conventions to improve levels of safety and respect in the Chamber and to enhance wellbeing, balance and flexibility. Looking forward, some of the notable work underway includes: The establishment of a new human resources function to support parliamentarians and their staff. The development of new measures to support greater diversity and inclusion. The framework for action set out in the Set the Standard Report is leadership, diversity and inclusion, accountability, and safety and wellbeing. We all have a responsibility to display exemplary individual leadership. We all have a role to play to set the standard for an inclusive, respectful, and professional workplace here in Parliament House and across Australia.

It is with great sorrow that we join with others in expressing sadness at news of the death of Her Majesty The Queen, Elizabeth II.

Media release issue date: Friday, 9 September 2022

It is with great sorrow that we join with others in expressing sadness at news of the death of Her Majesty The Queen, Elizabeth II.  We send our sincere condolences to Her Majesty’s family at this time. Her Majesty has travelled much of Australia’s journey with us. She was monarch and Australia’s head of State for 70 of the nation’s 121 years of federation. Queen Elizabeth II has been inextricably linked with Australia’s Parliament. Her grandfather, George V, opened Australia’s first Parliament in the Exhibition Buildings in Melbourne when he was Duke of York. Then her father, George VI, along with her mother opened the provisional Parliament House in Canberra as Duke and Duchess of York on 9 May 1927. To the day, 61 years later – on 9 May 1988, Her Majesty opened the new Parliament House. Her Royal Highness formally opened sittings of Parliament three times; in 1954 the year following her coronation, in 1974 and 1977. Her Royal Highness visited Parliament House, both provisional and new, eight times. Most recently, in 2011 for a reception in the Great Hall as part of a tour which ended with attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Perth. In Her Majesty's speeches during those visits, she often expressed faith and optimism in Australia, its people and its democracy. She spoke of the special bond she felt with Australians who she said, in 2006, had creative energy leavened by generous warmth and humour with a proud record of defending freedom and democracy. Her Majesty’s commitment to the Commonwealth, and its commitment to democracy, was a constant throughout her reign. That commitment to parliamentary democracy is a foundation stone of the Commonwealth Parliament Association which brings together more than 180 legislatures, including Australia. There will be a range of commemorative activities at Australian Parliament House in coming days. These include:  A 96 gun salute to mark the death of Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II on the forecourt of Australian Parliament House  Flags at Australian Parliament House will today be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset as a mark of respect and mourning  A National Memorial Service will be held at Australian Parliament House and broadcast to the nation Members of the public who wish to lay floral tributes or provide a message of condolence may do so at Australian Parliament House. Details of how to do so are on the website. Full details for all commemorations at Australian Parliament House can be found at aph.gov.au.

Following ongoing discussions with Commonwealth and ACT health officials and agencies, the following settings in Parliament House will be put in place for the opening of the 47th Parliament on Tuesday 26 July 2022 and the following sitting fortnight

Media release issue date: Friday, 22 July 2022

Following ongoing discussions with Commonwealth and ACT health officials and agencies, the following settings in Parliament House will be put in place for the opening of the 47th Parliament on Tuesday 26 July 2022 and the following sitting fortnight: The use of face masks is strongly encouraged within Parliament House where physical distancing is not possible. Whilst in the Chamber, it is often impracticable for the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition and the Speaker to wear masks. Staff can continue to work from the building where it suits both employers and employees, in accordance with ACT Health advice. Parliament House will remain open to the public. The galleries in each chamber will be closed to the public on 26 July and capacity will be reduced to enable greater distancing. Chairs and tables will remain in all catering outlets but with greater distancing and queueing guidance. The Parliament Shop will remain open. The Health and Recreation Centre will remain open in line with ACT Health Guidelines. The Hair and Nail Salon is available for appointments. Inside and outside events will be permissible and run according to ACT Health Guidelines. They will require a COVID-19 Safety Plan. Face mask packs are available at all entrances. Please place used masks in the dedicated bins provided around Parliament House or seal used masks in a plastic zip lock bag and put them in your bin. Important safeguards All building occupants and visitors are reminded to: Not attend the building if you are feeling unwell, even if you have had a negative rapid antigen test. Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 and follow ACT Health advice. Continue to follow strict COVID-safe hygiene and physical distancing requirements.   Use the masks and hand sanitiser that are available throughout the building. Entry to the building will be taken as confirmation that you do not have symptoms and have complied with ACT Health advice. The situation will be closely monitored, and any changes will be communicated to building occupants.

Following ongoing discussions with Commonwealth health officials and agencies, the settings in Parliament House for the Budget sittings, commencing 29 March 2022, will remain largely unchanged from current operations.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 17 March 2022

Following ongoing discussions with Commonwealth health officials and agencies, the settings in Parliament House for the Budget sittings, commencing 29 March 2022, will remain largely unchanged from current operations.  However, some limited measures will be introduced to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission while ensuring business continuity. Arrangements currently in place that will continue, including: Parliament House will remain open to the public. Parliament Shop will remain open. Chairs and tables will remain in all catering outlets (and in outdoor courtyards). The Health and Recreation Centre will remain open in line with ACT Health Guidelines (no current restrictions). Inside and outside events will be permissible and run according to ACT Health Guidelines.  They will require a COVID-19 Safety Plan. Staff can work from the building where it suits employers and employees, in accordance with ACT Health advice. House of Representatives Chamber and Galleries. All members will be allowed to sit in the House of Representatives Chamber and the public Galleries will return to full capacity seating. Masks will be mandatory in the Chamber and Galleries due to increased attendance in the Galleries during the Budget sitting week. Senate Chamber and Galleries All Senators will be allowed in the Chamber in the regular seating plan. Masks in the Senate chamber will not be mandatory due to the smaller number of Senators and the greater physical distancing but are strongly recommended when physical distancing is not possible (such as Question Time and divisions). Spacing in the Galleries will mean masks will not be mandatory but will be encouraged. Other COVID-safe measures will continue to operate in the building in line with ACT and Commonwealth health advice. by entering the building you acknowledge you do not have symptoms and are not required to isolate under ACT Health rules for those exposed to COVID-19 physical distancing markers at entry points with Perspex screens at security points people entering parliament House will be strongly encouraged to use masks where it is difficult to maintain physical distancing for some Department of Parliamentary Services staff in critical roles, masks may still be required. For these staff, this requirement will be confirmed by your manager. good hand hygiene will continue to be promoted with hand sanitiser available throughout the building, and regular high touch cleaning in security screening areas. Building occupants and visitors are reminded to stay home if you are unwell and get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19. The situation will be closely monitored, and any changes will be communicated to building occupants.

Consistent with the ongoing community transmission of COVID-19, there are currently three cases in Parliament House.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 15 February 2022

Consistent with the ongoing community transmission of COVID-19, there are currently three cases in Parliament House. People who have had potential exposure have been contacted and tested as appropriate. However, this serves as a good reminder to follow the medical advice while in the building. We also remind you about the important building safeguards as mentioned in the Presiding Officers’ Statement of 27 January 2022: Continue to follow strict COVID-safe hygiene and physical distancing requirements Do not attend the building if you are feeling unwell Anybody with any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 must not enter the building. They must remain at home and follow ACT Health advice Use the masks and sanitiser that are available throughout the building for your use.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Andrew Wallace and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Slade Brockman, have delivered the Statement of Acknowledgement on behalf of the cross-party Leadership Taskforce overseeing the implementation of the recommendations of the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces by the Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Kate Jenkins.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 8 February 2022

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Andrew Wallace and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Slade Brockman, have delivered the Statement of Acknowledgement on behalf of the cross-party Leadership Taskforce overseeing the implementation of the recommendations of the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces by the Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Kate Jenkins. In the final sitting week of 2021 the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces was published by the Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins. Today, on the first sitting day of 2022, we deliver this Statement on behalf of the Parliamentary Cross-Party Leadership Taskforce recommended by Commissioner Jenkins and as a reflection of the Parliament. We acknowledge the unacceptable history of workplace bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault in Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces. This issue is of the greatest importance and the responsibility of all people who work in this place. Any bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault is unacceptable and wrong. We say sorry. Every workplace should be safe and respectful. This place and its members are committed to bringing about lasting and meaningful change to both culture and practice within our workplaces. We have failed to provide this in the past. We today declare our personal and collective commitment to make the changes required. We will aspire, as we should, to set the standard for the nation. We thank all of those who participated in the Jenkins Review, acknowledging everyone who came forward to tell us of their experiences. We also acknowledge the many others who could not or did not participate but who may have experienced misconduct. We know that your experiences have had profound and far-reaching impacts on your lives. We have listened and heard you, and we accept your calls for change. This Parliament should serve as a model workplace for our nation. Only by creating the best workplace will this Parliament attract the best people our country has to offer. And only by attracting the best our country has to offer, and listening to the communities we represent, will we deliver the high standards that our country deserves. Parliamentary workers feel pride in working for their country, and the privilege and honour of making a difference for the Australian people. However, for far too many, it has not been safe or respectful. The Jenkins Review proposes an ambitious program of reform to ensure Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces meet the highest standards. We are fully committed to working across the Parliament to implement all of these recommendations within the timeframes proposed by Commissioner Jenkins. We have started to act. Last year, we established a new independent complaints process and began providing trauma-informed support for people who have experienced serious incidents working in the Parliament. Members, Senators and staff have undertaken professional workplace training. Parliamentarians must uphold the highest standards and be accountable for delivering required actions. We know that cultural change has to come from the top – it has to be role modelled and championed by all of us. While we know we cannot undo the harm that has already been done, we are committed to acknowledging the mistakes of the past and continuing to build safe and respectful workplaces.

Following ongoing discussions with Commonwealth health officials and agencies, restrictions will be in place for the upcoming sitting of Parliament (7-18 February) which includes a week of Additional Estimates, to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue it essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 27 January 2022

Following ongoing discussions with Commonwealth health officials and agencies, restrictions will be in place for the upcoming sitting of Parliament (7-18 February) which includes a week of Additional Estimates, to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue it essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. The sittings of Parliament are essential. To ensure Parliament can sit safely, and for continuity of building operations, the building will close to the public and numbers of staff will again be limited. The measures, which will ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work uninterrupted while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission, include: Only staff who are considered genuinely and absolutely essential by their employer, and are unable to work remotely, are to come into the building. Where work can be undertaken from home it should be done so. This includes all staff in the offices of members, senators, office holders, ministers, parliamentary departments and the media Nurses will undertake temperature testing at all entrances Face masks are mandatory indoors, especially when in or travelling through communal areas of the building As the building is closed to the public, any events that have already been booked for this period will not proceed and no event or courtyard bookings will be taken APH operations During the next sitting period, non-essential services in the building will be closed. A restricted catering service will continue for those who need to work in the building. These changes include: The Health and Recreation Centre, courts and playing fields will be open with strictly limited numbers.  Bookings will be essential The Parliament Shop will close Chairs and tables will be removed from catering outlets Queen’s Terrace Café and Members and Guests Dining Room will be closed Take home meals are still available – through In-Room Dining, and Staff Dining Room Meals delivered through In-Room Dining will be via contactless delivery All DPS operated food outlets will remain cashless Reusable (keep) cups will not be accepted during this period The health settings will continue to be monitored and any change will be communicated promptly. Visitors to the building Visitors may only be signed in for essential meetings. A pass holder who signs visitors into the building is responsible for those guests while they are in Parliament House. After the meeting, those visitors must be escorted back to a security entrance by the person who signed them in. If the visitor has a subsequent meeting with a different office, they must be signed in again at the security entrance by a representative of that other office. Important safeguards All building occupants are reminded to: Continue to follow strict COVID-safe hygiene and physical distancing requirements Use the masks and sanitiser that are available throughout the building for your use Do not attend the building if you are feeling unwell Use the Check-in CBR app to register attendance where posted around the building Anybody with any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 must not enter the building. They must remain at home and follow ACT Health advice Entry to the building will be taken as confirmation that you fully comply with the above and have not been at an exposure site, you do not have symptoms and have complied with ACT Health orders. Further and more specific advice will be provided as it becomes available.

After scheduled discussions today with Commonwealth and ACT Health authorities, the Presiding Officers have decided to lift the restrictions applied to Parliament House on the weekend (4 & 5 December).

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 7 December 2021

After scheduled discussions today with Commonwealth and ACT Health authorities, the Presiding Officers have decided to lift the restrictions applied to Parliament House on the weekend (4 and 5 December). ACT Health has identified all close and casual contacts of a staffer who tested positive to Covid-19 on his return to Victoria, and advises the risk to other building occupants and members of the public is extremely low. On that basis, from Wednesday 8 December: the building will re-open to the public the Health and Recreation Centre, courts and playing fields will reopen consistent with ACT Government advice the Parliament Shop will reopen indoor and outdoor seating will return in dining areas consistent with the ACT’s Covid-19 advice the Queen’s Terrace Café will reopen reusable cups will again be allowed events will be able to resume frontline staff, including the security and catering staff, will continue to wear masks. Other building occupants are encouraged to wear a mask if they want to, and staff can return to the building where it suits employees and employers, and in accordance with the ACT Health advice. Occupants and visitors must continue to use the Check in CBR app where posted. Anybody with any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 must not enter the building. They must remain at home and follow ACT Health advice. Entry to the building will be taken as confirmation that you fully comply with the above and have not been at an exposure site, you do not have symptoms and have complied with ACT Health orders. Information on the ACT’s continued health measures can found here on the ACT COVID-19 website. The Presiding Officers would like to thank building occupants for their cooperation and patience during this time.

Following changes to ACT restrictions, building occupants of Parliament House will no longer be required to wear masks in the workplace from today (12 November) up until the beginning of the last parliamentary sitting period for 2021 (from Sunday 21 November).

Media release issue date: Friday, 12 November 2021

Following changes to ACT restrictions, building occupants of Parliament House will no longer be required to wear masks in the workplace from today (12 November) up until the beginning of the last parliamentary sitting period for 2021 (from Sunday 21 November). Face masks will again be mandatory in Parliament House for the final sitting fortnight from Sunday 21 November to Friday 3 December 2021.  Masks will still be necessary for Security, Catering, Events and Visitor Services personnel. While high vaccination rates have allowed easing of restrictions by state and territory governments, following consultation with Commonwealth and ACT health officials, it remains necessary to maintain stricter precautionary measures to ensure the safety of all building occupants for the final sitting period—22 November to 3 December 2021. Parliament House is a unique workplace with parliamentarians and staff travelling to Canberra from all over Australia to attend sittings and then back home again. The risk of infection and transmission remains high with different health settings, eased quarantine requirements and variable rates of vaccinations among the states and territories. Precautionary measures, stricter than ACT requirements, will ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work uninterrupted while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Accordingly, Parliament House will remain closed to the public until Friday 3 December and will reopen to the public from Saturday 4 December 2021. The measures to take effect from Monday 22 November to Friday 3 December (final sitting fortnight) include: Only staff who are considered genuinely and absolutely essential by their employer, and are unable to work remotely, are to come into the building. Where work can be undertaken from home it should be done so. This includes all staff in the offices of members, senators, office holders, ministers, parliamentary departments and the media Nurses will undertake temperature testing at all entrances Face masks will again be mandatory (from Sunday 21 November) No event or courtyard bookings will be taken. APH operations During the next sitting period, non-essential services in the building will be closed. A restricted catering service will continue for those who need to work in the building. These changes include: Health and Recreation Centre, courts and playing fields will close The Parliament Shop will close Chairs and tables will be removed from catering outlets Queen’s Terrace Café and Members and Guests Dining Room will be closed Take home meals are still available – through In-Room Dining, and Staff Dining Room Meals delivered through In-Room Dining will be via contactless delivery All DPS operated food outlets will remain cashless Reusable (keep) cups will not be accepted during this period. The health settings will continue to be monitored and any change will be communicated promptly. Visitors to the building Visitors may only be signed in for essential meetings.  A pass holder who signs visitors into the building is responsible for those guests while they are in Parliament House. After the meeting, those visitors must be escorted back to a security entrance by the person who signed them in. If the visitor has a subsequent meeting with a different office, they must be signed in again at the security entrance by a representative of that other office. Important safeguards All building occupants are reminded to: Continue to follow strict COVID-safe hygiene and physical distancing requirements   Use the masks and sanitiser that are available throughout the building for your use Do not attend the building if you are feeling unwell Use the Check-in CBR app to register attendance where posted around the building All those entering the building must check the ACT Government COVID-19 website and exposure sites updates prior to attending APH, and regularly as it is constantly updated Anybody with any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 must not enter the building. They must remain at home and follow ACT Health advice Entry to the building will be taken as confirmation that you fully comply with the above and have not been at an exposure site, you do not have symptoms and have complied with ACT Health orders. Parliamentarians who return to the ACT must comply with the ACT Public Health Directions. ACT exposure sites The ACT Government updates a list of exposure sites on its website each day. Please check this frequently. If you have been to any of these locations at the dates and times specified, please follow the ACT Health advice. Testing locations in the ACT can be found here. Further and more specific advice will be provided as it becomes available.

Following our ongoing discussions with Commonwealth and ACT health officials the following temporary and precautionary changes are in place at Parliament House.

Media release issue date: Friday, 29 October 2021

Following our ongoing discussions with Commonwealth and ACT health officials the following temporary and precautionary changes are in place at Parliament House. Parliament House will remain closed to the public until after the final sitting fortnight which will run from 22 November to 3 December. Measures to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission will be confirmed prior to that sitting period commencing. Changes to the ACT Government’s COVID restrictions will however allow a cautious easing of the measures in place at Parliament House for the next three non-sitting weeks only, commencing from 1 November. The measures include: Staff who have been working remotely can commence a gradual return to the building where it suits employees and employers, and in accordance with the Public Health Direction Access to the building for non-occupants is limited and only for essential business purposes Health and Recreation Centre, courts and playing fields will reopen, consistent with ACT Government restrictions The Parliament Shop will reopen Chairs and tables will return for seated dining consistent with the ACT’s COVID restrictions Queen’s Terrace Café, House of Representatives Coffee Cart and Members and Guests Dining Room will be closed Take home meals are still available – through In-Room Dining, and Staff Dining Room Meals delivered through In-Room Dining will be via contactless delivery All DPS operated food outlets will remain cashless Reusable (keep) cups will not be accepted during this period. All those entering the building must check the ACT Government COVID-19 website and exposure sites updates prior to attending Parliament House. Anybody with any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 must not enter the building. They must remain at home and follow ACT Health advice. Entry to the building will be taken as confirmation that you fully comply with the above and have not been at an exposure site, you do not have symptoms and have complied with ACT Health orders. These measures will be in place from 1 November to 5pm on 19 November. Wearing of face masks within workplaces, including Parliament House, remains mandatory in the ACT. Important safeguards All building occupants are reminded to: Continue to follow strict COVID-safe hygiene and physical distancing requirements  Use the masks and sanitiser that are available throughout the building for your use Do not attend the building if you are feeling unwell Use the Check-in CBR app to register attendance where posted around the building. ACT exposure sites The ACT Government updates a list of exposure sites on its website each day. Please check this frequently. If you have been to any of these locations at the dates and times specified, please follow the ACT Health advice.  Testing locations in the ACT can be found here. Reporting processes It is important that suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 at APH are managed in a systematic and timely manner. The notification process has been developed to assist you in reporting cases of COVID-19. Step 1: Report to local health authorities If you or someone in your team has symptoms of COVID-19, or you have had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, notify local health authorities immediately. For further information on COVID-19 please visit Health Direct or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Line 1800 020 080, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Step 2: Report to your local organisation / employer It is important you report through your own organisation’s COVID-19 notification process as detailed in previous building communications. Your organisation / employer will organise cleaning of the affected areas and advise DPS of the case through covid@aph.gov.au. For further information on this process please contact your nominated contact officer.  Further and more specific advice will be sent to building occupants as it becomes available.

The precautionary measures introduced before the last sitting of Parliament in August and September will remain in place for the next sitting fortnight from 18 October 2021 to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 12 October 2021

The precautionary measures introduced before the last sitting of Parliament in August and September will remain in place for the next sitting fortnight from 18 October 2021 to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. These measures have been agreed following discussions with Commonwealth Health officials and recognise the ACT Government’s introduction of covid restrictions since the August sittings. The measures include: Only staff who are considered genuinely and absolutely essential by their employer, and are unable to work remotely, are to come into the building. Where work can be undertaken from home it should be done so. This includes all staff in the offices of members, senators, office holders, ministers, parliamentary departments and the media; Witnesses for Senate Estimates can be signed in but should be kept to a minimum; All those entering the building must check the ACT Government COVID-19 website and exposure sites updates prior to attending APH, and regularly through each day as it is constantly updated; Anybody with any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 must not enter the building. They must remain at home and follow ACT Health advice; Entry to the building will be taken as confirmation that you fully comply with the above and have not been at an exposure site, you do not have symptoms and have complied with ACT Health orders; and Nurses will undertake temperature testing at all entrances. Parliamentarians who return to the ACT must comply with the ACT Public Health Directions. The building will continue to be closed to the public and only those staff necessary to maintain essential building functions will be present. APH operations During the next sitting period, non-essential services in the building will be remain closed. There will be a restricted catering service for parliamentarians and essential staff who need to work in the building. Wearing of face masks is currently mandatory in the ACT. Anyone aged 12 years and over must wear a mask at all times when leaving home, including in workplaces. People will be strongly discouraged from spending time in common areas. Important safeguards All building occupants are reminded to: Continue to follow strict COVID-safe hygiene and physical distancing requirements.  Use the masks and sanitiser that are available throughout the building for your use. Do not attend the building if you are feeling unwell. Use the Check-in CBR app to register attendance where posted around the building. Travelling to the ACT A list of designated postcodes in the surrounding region outside of the ACT has been issued by ACT Health so those staff considered essential who live in those areas may still travel to their work at APH. Information for those living outside the ACT in one of the approved postcodes can be found here. For those staff who do not live in either the ACT or within one of the designated postcodes, an exemption must be applied for through ACT Health Online travel forms - COVID-19 (act.gov.au). More advice on entering the ACT is located here. ACT exposure sites The ACT Government updates a list of exposure sites on its website several times each day. Please check this frequently. If you have been to any of these locations at the dates and times specified, please follow the ACT Health advice.  Testing locations in the ACT can be found here. Reporting processes It is important that suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 at APH are managed in a systematic and timely manner. The notification process has been developed to assist you in reporting cases of COVID-19. Step 1: Report to local health authorities If you or someone in your team has symptoms of COVID-19, or you have had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, notify local health authorities immediately. For further information on COVID-19 please visit Health Direct or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Line 1800 020 080, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Step 2: Report to your local organisation / employer It is important you report through your own organisation’s COVID-19 notification process as detailed in previous building communications. Your organisation / employer will organise cleaning of the affected areas and advise DPS of the case through covid@aph.gov.au. For further information on this process please contact your nominated contact officer. Further and more specific advice will be sent to building occupants as it becomes available.

Following our ongoing discussions and correspondence with Commonwealth health officials and agencies including the Chief Medical Officer, the following temporary and precautionary changes are in place at Australian Parliament House (APH) in order to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Media release issue date: Friday, 20 August 2021

Following our ongoing discussions and correspondence with Commonwealth health officials and agencies including the Chief Medical Officer, the following temporary and precautionary changes are in place at Australian Parliament House (APH) in order to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. As announced on 12 August, the changes implemented at Australian Parliament House (APH) prior to the most recent sitting fortnight will continue to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission. With increased numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the ACT, further measures will be implemented from 23 August: Across the entire building, including in the offices of members, senators, office holders, ministers and parliamentary departments, only genuinely and absolutely essential staff required to conduct their work onsite and unable to do so remotely are to come into the building. Where work can be undertaken from home it should be done so. All those entering the building must check the ACT Government COVID-19 website and exposure sites updates prior to attending APH, and regularly through each day as it is constantly updated. Anybody with any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 must not enter the building. They must remain at home and follow ACT Health advice. Entry to the building will be taken as confirmation that you fully comply with the above and have not been at an exposure site, you do not have symptoms and have complied with ACT Health orders. Nurses will undertake temperature testing at all entrances. As per our previous direction issued on 12 August, parliamentarians who return to the ACT must comply with the ACT Public Health Directions. The building will continue to be closed for the duration of the current ACT lockdown. Only those staff necessary to maintain essential building functions will be present. Building occupants who are considered essential to the running of the building and the media who are considered essential by their employers can continue to attend APH during the lockdown. APH operations During the next sitting period, non-essential services in the building will remain closed. There will be a restricted catering service for parliamentarians and essential staff. Wearing face masks is mandatory in the ACT from 5pm Thursday 12 August. If you are aged 12 years and over you must wear a mask at all times when leaving home, including in workplaces. People will be strongly discouraged from spending time in common areas. Important safeguards All building occupants are reminded: Continue to follow strict COVID-safe hygiene and physical distancing requirements.  Use the masks and sanitiser available throughout the building for your use. Do not attend the building if you are feeling unwell. The Check-in CBR app must be used to register attendance where posted around the building. Where possible minimise time in the building and interactions within the building Travelling to the ACT A list of designated postcodes in the surrounding region outside of the ACT has been issued by ACT Health so those staff considered essential who live in those areas may still travel to their work at APH. Information for those living outside the ACT in one of the approved postcodes can be found here. For those staff who live do not live in either the ACT or within one of the designated postcodes, an exemption must be applied for through ACT Health Online travel forms - COVID-19 (act.gov.au). More advice on entering the ACT is located here. ACT exposure sites The ACT Government updates a list of exposure sites on its website several times each day. Please check this frequently. If you have been to any of these locations at the dates and times specified, please follow the ACT Health advice.  Testing locations in the ACT can be found here. Reporting processes It is important that suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 at APH are managed in a systematic and timely manner. The notification process has been developed to assist you in reporting cases of COVID-19. Step 1: Report to local health authorities If you or someone in your team has symptoms of COVID-19, or you have had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, notify local health authorities immediately. For further information on COVID-19 please visit Health Direct or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Line 1800 020 080, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Step 2: Report to your local organisation / employer It is important you report through your own organisation’s COVID-19 notification process as detailed in previous building communications. Your organisation / employer will organise cleaning of the affected areas and advise DPS of the case through covid@aph.gov.au. For further information on this process please contact your nominated contact officer.  Further and more specific advice will be sent to building occupants as it becomes available.

The ACT Government has announced a strict seven-day lockdown, which commenced at 5pm today.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 12 August 2021

The ACT Government has announced a strict seven-day lockdown, which commenced at 5pm today. A number of cases of COVID-19 have been detected in the ACT. We have been in contact with Commonwealth and ACT health officials to discuss the impact on Australian Parliament House and its occupants. The building will be closed for the duration of the lockdown to all but staff necessary to maintain critical building functions. This includes parliamentarians and their essential staff being permitted to travel to Parliament House from their accommodation and back again to continue their work. Parliamentarians who return to their home states must follow the requirements imposed by their home state. If they return to the ACT next week, they must comply with the ACT Health directions. Building occupants who are considered essential to the running of the building and journalists are also permitted to attend APH during the lockdown. We would ask though that numbers are kept as low as possible. Travelling to the ACT  A list of designated postcodes in the surrounding region outside of the ACT has been issued by ACT Health so those staff considered essential who live in those areas may still travel to their work at Parliament House. Information for those living outside the ACT in one of the approved postcodes can be found here. For those staff who live do not live in either the ACT or within one of the designated postcodes, an exemption must be applied for through ACT Health Online travel forms. More advice on entering the ACT is located here. APH operations  During the lockdown period, non-essential services in the building will be closed. There will be a restricted catering service for parliamentarians and essential staff who need to work in the building. Face masks will be mandatory for anyone working in APH in common areas and people will be strongly discouraged from spending time in common areas. Non-essential staff will be working from home if they are able. Given the significant measures already taken to allow this current sitting to go ahead, many staff are already working from home in some capacity. Staff should follow the advice of their department or employer. ACT exposure sites ACT Health has already released a list of exposure sites on the ACT Health website. Please check this regularly as they are likely to be updated.  If you have been to any of these locations at the dates and times specified, you must: Immediately quarantine Get tested Remain in quarantine until advised further by ACT Health, even if you get a negative test result. Testing locations in the ACT can be found here. Reporting processes  It is important that suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 at APH are managed in a systematic and timely manner. The notification process has been developed to assist you in reporting cases of COVID-19. Step 1: Report to local health authorities  If you or someone in your team has symptoms of COVID-19, or you have had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, notify local health authorities immediately. For further information on COVID-19 please visit Health Direct or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Line 1800 020 080, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Step 2: Report to your local organisation / employer  It is important you report through your own organisation’s COVID-19 notification process as detailed in previous building communications.  Your organisation / employer will organise cleaning of the affected areas and advise DPS of the case through covid@aph.gov.au. For further information on this process please contact your nominated contact officer. Further and more specific advice will be sent to building occupants as it becomes available.

Following our ongoing discussions and correspondence with Commonwealth health officials and agencies including the Chief Medical Officer, the following temporary and precautionary changes have been made to operations at Australian Parliament House (APH) in order to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Media release issue date: Monday, 26 July 2021

Following our ongoing discussions and correspondence with Commonwealth health officials and agencies including the Chief Medical Officer, the following temporary and precautionary changes have been made to operations at Australian Parliament House (APH) in order to ensure the Commonwealth Parliament can continue its essential work while reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. The measures are as strict as possible and align with previous arrangements implemented in early 2020 to minimise non-essential activity at APH while still enabling sittings to proceed.  These arrangements will come into effect on Monday 2 August 2021 and will remain in place until Friday 3 September inclusive. APH will be closed to the general public; this includes the galleries in each chamber. Parliamentary proceedings may still be followed through the Live Minutes and Dynamic Red, and through the APH website. The numbers of members and senators attending sittings in person will be substantially reduced, coordinated by party whips. Remote participation for those unable to attend will be facilitated and supported. We expect that many will participate remotely during this period.  Parliamentarians have been requested to only bring essential staff to Canberra and Parliament House. We expect that this will be limited to ministerial, shadow ministerial, party spokesperson and whips’ staff. The numbers of parliamentary departmental staff will be reduced by approximately 60% with as many regular staff working remotely where possible. Parliamentary departments will co-ordinate these arrangements directly with their employees. All external departments and agencies should minimise attendance of public servants unless on essential business. Members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery are also asked to minimise presence of staff and avoid non-essential attendance of escorted visitors. Members and senators and their staff should only sign-in those persons needing to conduct essential business and sponsors should ensure their visitors leave the building immediately following the conclusion of their business. While it is formally a matter for each parliamentary committee to consider, we recommend that Senate, House and joint committee hearings should continue to use video or teleconference facilities. Committee hearings held in APH during the next parliamentary sitting week will not be open to the public. Arrangements will be made for witnesses to appear in person only if essential.  Committee proceedings may be viewed through the APH website. School group bookings and all event bookings will be cancelled or postponed. Access restrictions will be applied to some pass-holder categories to minimise non-essential visits to the building. There will only be access for members, senators, parliamentary service staff and media passholders. The following categories of passholder will not be able to access the building: Former parliamentarians Elected members of other legislatures Volunteers and Sponsored pass holders. Physical distancing in the building, including the chambers and other meeting rooms, will return. The use of the Check-in CBR app will be extended to all food and beverage venues staying open under the takeaway only restriction. Those in Parliament House are asked not to attend any events on the Approved Assembly Area (the grass area beyond the forecourt). The fitness centre and pool will be closed, along with the sports fields. Regular team sports will be cancelled. COVID-safe marshals will encourage physical distancing and the wearing of face masks in mixed areas of the building, and gathering in high traffic areas will be discouraged. The strict measures will be outlined in greater detail in circulars for building occupants.  At all times senators, members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities, and specifically the orders of ACT Health when outside the building and regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment.  As there are jurisdictional differences in the response to COVID-19, it is important to familiarise yourself with the current ACT Government advice. Other up-to-date official information and advice is available from ACT Health and the Commonwealth Department of Health. Australian states and territories have applied their own travel restrictions, including in some cases closing state borders. As the situation continues to evolve, building occupants will be kept informed of any change regarding the operations of Parliament House. The Department of Parliamentary Services will continue to provide regular updates regarding appropriate health measures via Information Circulars. Discussions between Presiding Officers and health authorities regarding additional measures and requirements for those travelling to the ACT and returning to their home jurisdiction are ongoing.

Senators, members and staff will all be aware of the unique nature of Parliament House as a workplace, with people travelling to sitting weeks from around the country. Given the evolving situation in Victoria, we consulted with Commonwealth Health officials this morning to discuss matters related to the coming sitting week, travel and building operations.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 26 May 2021

Senators, members and staff will all be aware of the unique nature of Parliament House as a workplace, with people travelling to sitting weeks from around the country. Given the evolving situation in Victoria, we consulted with Commonwealth Health officials this morning to discuss matters related to the coming sitting week, travel and building operations. MPs and Staff returning to or planning on travelling to Victoria this weekend MPs and Staff who intend to return to Victoria this weekend should be aware ACT entry conditions may change without notice or on very short notice. This may delay or restrict travel back to the ACT next week. While advice on this issue is not yet available, it is appropriate Parliamentarians and staff may consider whether to remain in Canberra this weekend (a long weekend in the ACT) if they are able to do so. Transit through NSW to Victoria If you intend to travel to Victoria this weekend via NSW by car or plane, and intend to return to the ACT by road, please be aware of the new NSW Health requirements to register your entry to NSW, even for transit, here. If you have been to a close contact exposure location (Tier 1 exposure site) in Victoria: If you become aware that you have attended a close contact exposure site in Victoria, you must: immediately quarantine for 14 days since last attending the venue. call ACT Health on (02) 5124 6209. get tested for COVID-19, regardless of whether symptoms are present, as advised by ACT Health. If you have been to a casual contact exposure location (Tier 2 exposure site) in Victoria If you become aware that you have attended a casual contact exposure location you must: get tested for COVID-19 and self-isolate until you receive a negative test result continue to monitor for symptoms for at least 14 days since you have been in the location. If you have been to an exposure site or have COVID-19 symptoms, here is a reminder of the notification process. It is important you report through your own organisation’s COVID-19 notification process Building Occupant/Organisation Contact Members of House of Representatives James Catchpole, Serjeant-At-Arms Phone: 02 6277 4444 Senators John Begley, Usher of the Black Rod Phone: 02 6277 3398 Department of the Senate John Begley, Usher of the Black Rod Phone: 02 6277 3398 Department of the House of Representatives James Catchpole, Serjeant-At-Arms Phone: 02 6277 4444 Department of Parliamentary Services Relevant Branch Head who will advise covid@aph.gov.au Members of Parliament (Staff) Ministerial and Parliamentary Services Phone: 02 6215 3333 or mpshelp@finance.gov.au and your relevant House Department as above Ministerial Wing staff (via your organisation) Ministerial Wing Support Team Stephen Frost Phone: 02 6277 6087 and your portfolio agency Parliamentary Budget Office Amanda Bruce, Assistant Parliamentary Budget Officer Phone: 02 6277 9520 Australian Federal Police Adrian Norris, Security Controller Parliament House Phone: 02 5126 0000 Federal Parliamentary Press Gallery Bureau Chief in the first instance, who is to notify: President of the Press Gallery Committee on Phone: 02 6240 4027 or Vice President of the Press Gallery Committee Phone: 02 6275 4656; and   DPS Contracts and Licences Phone: 02 6277 8368 All other Licensees DPS Contracts and Licences Phone: 02 6277 8368 Transit through Melbourne to enter the ACT You may transit through Greater Melbourne to enter the ACT without completing the online declaration form if you do not: leave the airport, unless it is to go directly to the next mode of transport exit the vehicle or mode of transport while in Greater Melbourne. A reminder to anyone currently in the ACT, that if you have been in the Greater Melbourne area in the last 14 days, you must complete an ACT Health online declaration form – available here. Important Safeguards The events in Melbourne are a reminder of behaviours we need to reinforce a this time. Please remember to: Maintain good Covid-safe hygiene regarding hand washing, sneezing etc All building occupants must continue to follow strict hygiene and physical distancing requirements with which we have all become familiar.  Masks and sanitiser are available throughout the building for your use. Do not attend the building if you are feeling unwell. Check In CBR QR codes are located at catering venues, the party and committee rooms and around the building. Other than where specifically advised, the Check-in CBR app must be used to register attendance where posted around the building. As the situation evolves, Senators, Members and staff should continue to monitor the ACT Health website and Victorian Government website for updates, in particular for further sites requiring quarantine, isolation and testing.

Changes to the ACT Government’s COVID restrictions have allowed a further easing of the measures in place at Australian Parliament House.

Media release issue date: Monday, 10 May 2021

Changes to the ACT Government’s COVID restrictions have allowed a further easing of the measures in place at Australian Parliament House. The multi-purpose courts (netball and basketball) are now available to Health and Recreation Centre (HRC) members for bookings. The Senate Oval will reopen for bookings from 10 May 2021 following current lawn maintenance activities and contact sports are now allowed. Booking organisers must complete a COVID Safe Plan (a simple check list of COVID Safe measures), which must be returned to the HRC team for all multi-purpose court and Senate Oval bookings. APH has put in place COVID Safe measures consistent with the ACT Government’s guidance. Self-service catering is again permitted for events in the building. For DPS managed events, there will be regular cleaning, monitoring of physical distancing and a COVID Marshal to assist. For non-DPS events, organisers will need to have a COVID Safe Plan in place as required by the COVID Safe event protocols. The Check-In CBR app will also be used. Use of the Check-In CBR app means the number of people going to non-parliamentary events and the number using the Theatrettes can be increased.  All visitors to the public entrance to the building should use the Check-in CBR app on arrival and if attending Queen’s Terrace Café (QTC). Visits by the public to Parliament House continue to be managed through booked tours.  COVID safe measures such as physical distancing markers and availability of hand sanitiser remain in place in line with ACT Government guidelines. Other COVID Safe measures continue to ensure the health and safety of visitors and those working within Parliament House: COVID Safe information, including reminding people who are unwell or have been in a COVID hotspot 14-days prior, not to visit Parliament House collection of contact details upon visitor booking to facilitate contact tracing, if necessary single-flow movement of people and physical distancing monitored by tour guides, and additional cleaning of high-touch points throughout the building. Conduct of parliamentarians and essential staff travelling from interstate At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information is available at ACT Health. Please do not travel to Canberra if you are unwell. All travellers should check the ACT Health website regarding restrictions on those who have visited designated areas. All persons visiting the ACT should make themselves familiar with the latest health advice applying in the ACT jurisdiction at ACT Health FAQs restrictions.

Following consultation between the Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments and relevant health officials, access arrangements to Australian Parliament House (APH) for the coming sitting fortnight will remain as they were for the first sitting week this year (2-4 February).

Media release issue date: Thursday, 11 February 2021

Following consultation between the Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments and relevant health officials, access arrangements to Australian Parliament House (APH) for the coming sitting fortnight will remain as they were for the first sitting week this year (2-4 February). All parliamentarians and staff travelling to the ACT for parliamentary sitting weeks and other parliamentary commitments must apprise themselves of all COVID-19 requirements imposed by their home state or territory as well as the requirements of the ACT. These details may be updated so all travellers must regularly check for updated information. In particular, those travelling from Victoria and Western Australia are reminded to regularly check their states’ health websites before travelling to the ACT in light of ongoing developments in these states.

Following consultation between the Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments and relevant health officials, the following access arrangements to Australian Parliament House (APH) are now in place and will remain so for both sitting and non-sitting weeks until further notice.

Media release issue date: Friday, 29 January 2021

Following consultation between the Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments and relevant health officials, the following access arrangements to Australian Parliament House (APH) are now in place and will remain so for both sitting and non-sitting weeks until further notice. Access to Parliament House APH will remain open to the public in accordance with the ACT Government’s COVID restrictions. All APH visitors and building occupants must comply with the ACT Government’s COVID-19 Easing of Restrictions Roadmap. APH will continue to open 7 days per week with the following arrangements: Access to the public galleries of the Senate and House of Representatives, and to committee hearings, will continue with limited numbers in a controlled and COVID Safe manner. All passholders can access private areas. However, conditions introduced last year remain. There should be no gathering or waiting around in the public or private areas of the building, including in the café or dining spaces, and meetings with building occupants must have been arranged prior to coming to the building. School visits  Primary and secondary school visits will continue during sitting weeks and non-sitting weeks. The APH School Visit Program includes a one-hour comprehensive guided tour of APH by Visitor Services staff and a one-hour interactive education program conducted by the Parliamentary Education Office. Events The internal event spaces in APH will continue to be used under strict COVID arrangements.  Guidelines on the requirements should be obtained from aphevents@aph.gov.au Tours for the public The public can only access the building by booking a guided or self-guided tour. These must be booked in advance at www.aph.gov.au/tours and will run regularly for up to 90 minutes in duration. No more than 500 people are permitted in the public areas of APH at any one time. Use of Parliament House playing fields The use of APH playing fields remains under consideration for later in February. Those interested in accessing and using the playing fields will be required to follow relevant ACT Public Health Directions. Information about bookings and requirements for users are available via the Health and Recreation Centre. Parliament House courtyard access The ongoing access to APH courtyards for events will be further assessed. In the meantime, events in courtyards will continue to be managed via the respective Whip’s Offices. COVID Safe measures COVID Safe measures are in place to ensure the health and safety of visitors and those working within APH. These measures include: COVID Safe information, including reminding people who are unwell or have been in a COVID hotspot 14-days prior, not to visit APH; collection of contact details upon booking to facilitate contact tracing, if necessary; single-flow movement of people and physical distancing monitored by tour guides; additional cleaning of high-touch points in public areas; and, cashless purchases at all outlets. Masks Health officials have asked us to specifically re-emphasise their strong recommendation that masks should be worn in those areas of the building where people circulate and where physical distancing is not possible, particularly by those at increased risk of COVID-19. Face mask kits are available at building entrances and the level 1 cloak room. For more information on the use of masks, please note the latest advice from the ACT Government, including the mandatory requirement for face masks for people aged 12 and over, while inside the Canberra Airport terminal and during domestic commercial flights in and out of Canberra. Conduct of parliamentarians and essential staff travelling from interstate At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information is available at ACT Health. Please do not travel to Canberra if you are unwell. All travellers should check the ACT Health website regarding restrictions on those who have visited designated areas. Compliance with these requirements is compulsory and all travellers should check for up-to-date information regularly. As advice evolves to meet new circumstances it is the responsibility of all travellers to regularly check this information and ensure compliance. Strict compliance with ACT orders and physical distancing must be followed. All persons visiting the ACT should make themselves familiar with the latest health advice applying in the ACT jurisdiction at ACT Health FAQs restrictions.

Following consultations between the Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments and relevant health officials, the operations of Australian Parliament House (APH) will be as they were during the last sitting week.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 26 November 2020

Following consultations between the Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments and relevant health officials, the operations of Australian Parliament House (APH) will be as they were during the last sitting week. COVID-19 Statement by the Presiding Officers regarding on-going APH access – Parliament of Australia – 3 Nov 2020  Masks  While the wearing of face masks is not mandatory in the ACT, it is strongly recommended in those areas of the building where people circulate and where physical distancing is not possible, particularly by those at increased risk of COVID-19. Face mask kits will be available at building entrances and the level 1 cloak room. Conduct of parliamentarians and essential staff travelling from interstate At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information is available at ACT Health.  Please do not travel to Canberra if you are unwell.  All travellers should check the ACT Health website regarding restrictions on those who have visited designated areas. ACT travel advice can be found here. Compliance with these requirements is compulsory and all travellers should check for up-to-date information regularly. Senators, Members and staff travelling from South Australia must complete an online declaration prior to entering the ACT. All non-essential travel between the ACT and South Australia is discouraged at this time. Further information can be found at Travel between SA and the ACT. As advice evolves to meet new circumstances it is the responsibility of all travellers to regularly check this information and ensure compliance.  All persons visiting the ACT should make themselves familiar with the latest health advice applying in the ACT jurisdiction at ACT Health FAQs restrictions.

Following consultations between the Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments and relevant health officials, new access arrangements to Australian Parliament House (APH) are now in place and will remain so for both sitting and non-sitting weeks until further notice.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 3 November 2020

Following consultations between the Presiding Officers, parliamentary departments and relevant health officials, new access arrangements to Australian Parliament House (APH) are now in place and will remain so for both sitting and non-sitting weeks until further notice.  Access to Parliament House APH will be open to the public in accordance with the ACT Government’s COVID restrictions. All APH visitors and building occupants must comply with the ACT Government’s COVID-19 Easing of Restrictions Roadmap.  APH will be open 7 days per week with the following arrangements. Access to the public galleries of the Senate and House of Representatives, and to committee hearings, will be reinstated with limited numbers in a controlled and COVID Safe manner.  All passholders are welcome to return to the building and access private areas. However, the conditions in place earlier this year remain. There should be no gathering or waiting around in the public or private areas of the building, including in the café or dining spaces, and meetings with building occupants must have been arranged prior to coming to the building.  Return of school visits  We are pleased to welcome the return of primary and secondary school visits during sitting weeks. The APH School Visit Program includes a one-hour comprehensive guided tour of APH by Visitor Services staff and a one-hour interactive education program conducted by the Parliamentary Education Office.  Events The internal event spaces in APH will re-open under strict COVID arrangements.  Guidelines on the requirements should be obtained from aphevents@aph.gov.au Guided tours for the public The public can only access the building by booking a guided tour.  These must be booked in advance at www.aph.gov.au/tours and will run regularly for a 30 – 60 minute duration with up to 20 people.  No more than 200 people will be permitted in the public areas of APH at any one time.  COVID Safe measures COVID Safe measures will be in place to support the staged reopening of APH and ensure the health and safety of visitors and those working within APH. These measures include: COVID Safe information, including reminding people who are unwell not to visit APH, will be provided upon booking and arrival; collection of contact details upon booking should contact tracing be necessary; single-flow movement of people and physical distancing monitored by tour guides; additional cleaning of high-touch points in public areas; and, cashless purchases at all outlets. Masks  While the wearing of face masks is not mandatory in the ACT, it is strongly recommended in those areas of the building where people circulate and where physical distancing is not possible, particularly by those at increased risk of COVID-19. Face mask kits will be available at building entrances and the level 1 cloak room. Conduct of parliamentarians and essential staff travelling from interstate At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information is available at ACT Health.  Please do not travel to Canberra if you are unwell.  All travellers should check the ACT Health website regarding restrictions on those who have visited designated areas. ACT travel advice can be found here. Compliance with these requirements is compulsory and all travellers should check for up-to-date information regularly. As advice evolves to meet new circumstances it is the responsibility of all travellers to regularly check this information and ensure compliance.  For those parliamentarians from areas free of community transmission or who have undertaken quarantine arrangements, strict compliance with ACT orders and physical distancing should be followed. All persons visiting the ACT should make themselves familiar with the latest health advice applying in the ACT jurisdiction at ACT Health FAQs restrictions.

The Presiding Officers are pleased to announce Dr Stein Helgeby has been appointed as the new Parliamentary Budget Officer for a four-year term from 18 November 2020.

Media release issue date: Friday, 23 October 2020

The Presiding Officers are pleased to announce Dr Stein Helgeby has been appointed as the new Parliamentary Budget Officer for a four-year term from 18 November 2020. Dr Helgeby brings extensive experience in public policy, fiscal policy, economic analysis and the Commonwealth budget framework to the role. Previously, he was a Deputy Secretary in the Department of Finance and has held a number of roles within the Commonwealth and Victorian Public Service. The appointment will be made by the Presiding Officers under section 64X of the Parliamentary Service Act 1999 (the Act). As the Parliamentary Budget Officer, Dr Helgeby will be responsible for informing the Parliament by providing independent and non-partisan analysis of the budget cycle, fiscal policy the financial implications of proposals, post-election report and research. This appointment was approved by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit. We thank Ms Linda Ward and Mr Colin Brown for acting in the role of Parliamentary Budget Officer while the extensive search for a permanent appointment was undertaken. We would also like to thank the Parliamentary Service Commissioner, Mr Peter Woolcott AO and his office for coordinating the recruitment process on our behalf, and the members of the Selection Panel for their work considering the strong field of applicants - David Tune AO PSM, Karen Chester and Phil Bowen PSM.

The following arrangements will be put in place regarding operations and activities at Australian Parliament House (APH) for the upcoming parliamentary sitting period comprising the House of Representatives and Senate Budget Estimates hearings.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 15 October 2020

Joint statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan The following arrangements will be put in place regarding operations and activities at Australian Parliament House (APH) for the upcoming parliamentary sitting period comprising the House of Representatives and Senate Budget Estimates hearings. These arrangements are the result of consultations between Presiding Officers, Parliamentary Departments and the Office of the Chief Medical Officer and are in accordance with the ACT Government’s COVID-19 Easing of Restrictions Roadmap. Access to Parliament House APH will again close to the general public for the parliamentary sitting period - Monday 19 October to Friday 30 October 2020. Proceedings in the House of Representatives may still be followed through the Live Minutes, and both the House and Senate Estimates hearings can be viewed via the APH website. Arrangements previously in place regarding the operation of the House of Representatives in a COVID-safe manner will continue. Specific arrangements have been put in place for Senate Estimates hearings. Further information for witnesses and officials is available from the Senate Committee Secretariats. We take this opportunity to remind all parliamentarians, occupants and those attending the building for essential business: masks should be worn in areas of the building where people are circulating; if feeling unwell, do not attend APH; and if unwell while attending APH, seek a COVID test. If a building occupant, report all suspected and confirmed cases to your nominated APH contact point. The following categories of passholder will lose automatic access to the private areas of the building: former parliamentarians; elected members of other legislatures; volunteers; and sponsored pass holders. Only persons needing to conduct essential business should be signed in and sponsors should ensure their visitors leave the building immediately following the conclusion of their business. Members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery will also be asked to avoid sponsoring non-essential attendance of escorted media visitors. Building Operations Committee proceedings held in APH will not be open to the public. Arrangements will be made for witnesses to appear in person if essential. Committee hearings may be viewed through the APH website. All school group bookings will be cancelled or postponed. No events will be held in the function spaces of the building. The operation of common building facilities will be in accordance with the ACT Government’s easing of restrictions and includes physically distanced tables and chairs in all catering facilities including the Staff Dining Room, Members and Guests Dining Room and Aussies; and additional chairs and tables in all outdoor areas. All meetings, whether parliamentary committee or party, must adhere to physical distancing guidelines if they cannot be conducted by video or teleconference. The Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) will continue to apply the measures adopted earlier this year including: physical distancing markers on floors at security screening points and food outlets; hand sanitiser stations; hygiene reminder signs; additional cleaning of high traffic touch points such as door handles and lift buttons; maximum occupancy signs in lifts and committee rooms; and all DPS food outlets will be cashless. Masks While the wearing of face masks is not mandatory in the ACT, it is strongly recommended in those areas of the building where people circulate and where physical distancing is not possible, particularly by those at increased risk of COVID-19. Face mask kits will be available at building entrances and the level 1 cloak room. Senate Estimates Additional COVID Safe measures will be in place for Senate Estimates. Only essential Departmental officials are to attend APH. Arrival will be via the public carpark and main front entrance. COVID Marshals will escort officials through to committee rooms. Physical distancing is to be maintained at all times and maximum occupancy limits for all rooms will be monitored. Additional cleaning of committee rooms, waiting rooms and high touch points will be implemented. Conduct of parliamentarians and essential staff travelling from interstate The staff of Members and Senators should not travel to Canberra unless it is considered absolutely essential. At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information is available at ACT Health. Please do not travel to Canberra if you are unwell. When attending APH, parliamentarians and staff should avoid congregating in groups. Social gatherings are strongly discouraged. All travellers should check the ACT Health website regarding restrictions on those who have visited designated areas. ACT travel advice can be found at www.covid19.act.gov.au/community/travel. Compliance with these requirements is compulsory. As advice evolves to meet new circumstances it is the responsibility of all travellers to regularly check this information and ensure compliance. For those parliamentarians from areas free of community transmission or who have undertaken quarantine arrangements, strict compliance with ACT orders and physical distancing should be followed. All persons visiting the ACT should make themselves familiar with the latest health advice applying in the ACT jurisdiction at ACT Health FAQs restrictions. Health and Recreation Centre Opening Hours: 6:15am and 8:00pm Monday to Thursday 6:15am to 7:00pm Friday. Parliamentarians only between 6:15am and 9:00am each day. Arrangements are in accordance with the ACT Government’s easing of restrictions and include restricted instructor-led classes, supervised use of weights and other equipment, pool, squash courts and tennis courts. Numbers are limited by current ACT restrictions and advance bookings are required. The ovals will not be open for bookings for contact sports such as touch football. The DPS will continue to provide regular updates as required regarding the operations of APH to building occupants over the sitting weeks following ongoing consultation with health authorities. Occupants of the building are recommended to download and activate the COVIDSafe App. The App can be downloaded from App Stores.

The Presiding Officers have advised that during Budget week, commencing from 5 October 2020, the same measures which were in place for the 24 August 2020 to 3 September 2020 sittings of Parliament will be implemented.

Media release issue date: Monday, 14 September 2020

The Presiding Officers have advised that during Budget week, commencing from 5 October 2020, the same measures which were in place for the 24 August 2020 to 3 September 2020 sittings of Parliament will be implemented. These measures cover the operations and activities at Parliament House, along with specific requests to persons travelling to the ACT. Details of these arrangements can be found in the 17 August Joint Statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan.

On 17 August 2020 we advised of arrangements made regarding operations and activities at Australian Parliament House (APH) for the parliamentary sitting period.

Media release issue date: Friday, 4 September 2020

Joint statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan On 17 August 2020 we advised of arrangements made regarding operations and activities at Australian Parliament House (APH) for the parliamentary sitting period. These arrangements for a COVID Safe sitting of the Parliament were based on consultations between the Presiding Officers, Parliamentary Departments and relevant Commonwealth officers and agencies including the Acting Chief Medical Officers. At the time, we advised the measures would apply for a fortnight commencing 24 August 2020. Access to Parliament House From 7 September 2020, APH will again be open to the public in accordance with the ACT Government’s easing of restrictions. APH will be open 7 days per week and free and paid guided tours will resume. Tour arrangements include: pre-booked attendance (www.aph.gov.au/tours) twelve tours per day for up to 20 people, and paid tours showcasing our Art and Furniture collection and APH architecture (which includes access to the APH roof). Access to the public galleries of the Senate and House of Representatives, and to committee hearings, will be reinstated in a controlled and COVID Safe manner. The following categories of passholders will again be welcome to access the private areas of the building: former parliamentarians elected members of other legislatures volunteers, and sponsored pass holders. There should be no gathering or waiting around in the public or private areas of the building including in the café or dining spaces and access remains for specific meetings with parliamentarians that have been arranged prior to coming to the building. The resumption of events in functions spaces remains under consideration. Return of school visits We are pleased to welcome the return of primary and secondary school visits. The APH School Visit Program includes a one-hour comprehensive guided tour of APH by Visitor Services staff and a one-hour interactive education program conducted by the Parliamentary Education Office. While meetings between a local member of Parliament and school groups are a highlight for all of us, it is strongly encouraged that these take place virtually. In accordance with advice from health officials, these groups will be kept separate from other visitors to the building. COVID Safe measures COVID Safe measures will be in place to support the reopening of APH and to ensure the health and safety of visitors and those working within APH. These measures include: COVID Safe information will be provided upon tour booking and arrival at APH, including reminding people who are unwell not to visit APH collection of contact details upon booking, should contact tracing be necessary single-flow movement of people and physical distancing monitored by tour guides additional cleaning of high touch points in public areas, and cashless purchases at all outlets. The Department of Parliamentary Services continues to maintain measures across APH as part of the ongoing pandemic response including: physical distancing markers on floors at security screening points and food outlets hand sanitiser stations positioned in circulation spaces hygiene reminder signs in bathrooms additional cleaning of touch points such as door handles and lift buttons limiting access to tables in dining spaces according to ACT restrictions signs in lifts and committee rooms specifying the maximum number of occupants. Building occupants will again have access to in-venue dining in accordance with the ACT Government restrictions.  Limited seating will be provided and it is essential physical distancing is maintained when frequenting these outlets. Health and Recreation Centre (HRC) The HRC will re-open from Monday 7 September and bookings are essential. The same COVID Safe measures will apply.  In accordance with the easing of restrictions by the ACT Government that came into place on 10 August 2020, the spa and sauna will re-open. These measures will reduce the risk of transmission and are consistent with advice from the ACT Government, Commonwealth Department of Health and Safe Work Australia. To reduce the risk of transmission, it is important all building occupants continue to follow the strict hygiene and physical distancing requirements with which we have all become familiar. Building arrangements will be reconsidered ahead of the next Parliamentary sitting period in October.

Following consultations between the Presiding Officers, Parliamentary Departments and relevant Commonwealth officers and agencies including the Acting Chief Medical Officer and ACT Health the following arrangements have been made regarding operations and activities at Parliament House for the upcoming sittings, along with specific requests to persons travelling to the ACT.

Media release issue date: Monday, 17 August 2020

Joint statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan Following consultations between the Presiding Officers, Parliamentary Departments and relevant Commonwealth officers and agencies including the Acting Chief Medical Officer and ACT Health the following arrangements have been made regarding operations and activities at Parliament House for the upcoming sittings, along with specific requests to persons travelling to the ACT. The measures are directed at reducing the risk of transmission within the parliamentary precincts and the ACT while enabling the essential work of Parliament to proceed. They reflect advice regarding the risk of travellers from areas with community transmission who have not undertaken quarantine arrangements (as those travelling from Victoria will have done). The measures will apply for the fortnight commencing Monday, 24 August and then be reviewed in line with health advice. Access to Parliament House Parliament House will again close to the general public, this includes the galleries in each chamber. Parliamentary proceedings may still be followed through the Live Minutes and Dynamic Red, and through the APH website. Arrangements previously in place regarding the operation of the chambers in a COVID-safe manner will continue. Access restrictions will be applied to some pass-holder categories to minimise non-essential visits to the building. The following categories of passholder will lose automatic access to the private areas of the building: Former parliamentarians; Elected members of other legislatures; Volunteers; and Sponsored pass holders. Only persons needing to conduct essential business should be signed in and sponsors should ensure their visitors leave the building immediately following the conclusion of their business. Members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery will also be asked to avoid sponsoring non-essential attendance of escorted media visitors. Government departments and agencies will be asked to minimise the use of Commonwealth departmental passes, and public servants are encouraged to avoid non-essential attendance. Building Operations Committee proceedings held in Parliament House during this period will not be open to the public. Arrangements will be made for witnesses to appear in person if essential. Committee hearings may be viewed through the APH website.  All school group bookings will be cancelled or postponed.  No events will be held in the function spaces of the building. The operation of common building facilities will also return to stricter arrangements similar to those in place earlier this year, including: Catering facilities being limited to take-away service only, with options for in-suite delivery; Closure of all dine-in facilities; and Closure of the Health and Recreation Centre. All meetings, whether parliamentary committee or party, will be required to strictly adhere to physical distancing guidelines if they cannot be conducted by video or teleconference. The Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) will continue to apply the measures adopted earlier this year including: Physical distancing markers on floors at security screening points and food outlets; Hand sanitiser stations; Hygiene reminder signs; Additional cleaning of high traffic touch points such as door handles and lift buttons; Maximum occupancy signs in lifts and committee rooms; and All DPS food outlets will be cashless. Marshals will also be present in areas of high volume at certain times of the day. Masks While the wearing of masks is not mandatory in the ACT, the wearing of masks is encouraged where physical distancing is not possible, and by those at increased risk of COVID-19. Conduct of parliamentarians and essential staff travelling from interstate The staff of Members and Senators should not travel to Canberra unless it is considered absolutely essential. At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information is available at ACT Health. Please do not travel to Canberra if you are unwell. When attending Parliament House, parliamentarians and staff should avoid congregating in groups, and avoid face-to-face meetings with external visitors. Social gatherings are strongly discouraged. Specifically, those travelling from Greater Sydney and Newcastle to the ACT are requested to: Avoid visiting retail or hospitality venues while in the ACT; Not visit high-risk settings including aged care facilities, hospitals and correctional facilities; Monitor for COVID-19 symptoms; and When outside their residence or Parliament House for other reasons (eg exercise), to strictly abide by physical distancing requirements, as is the requirement for everyone in the ACT. Additional ACT travel advice can be found at www.covid19.act.gov.au/community/travel Furthermore, as travel and movement through areas with community transmission poses a strong risk of further transmission, ALL parliamentarians and travelling essential staff are strongly advised to remain in the ACT for the weekend of August 29-30 rather than travel away and return. For those parliamentarians from areas free of community transmission or who have undertaken quarantine arrangements, strict compliance with ACT orders and physical distancing should be followed. All persons visiting the ACT should make themselves familiar with the latest health advice applying in the ACT jurisdiction at ACT Health FAQs restrictions.  The Department of Parliamentary Services will continue to provide regular updates regarding the operations of Parliament House to building occupants over the sitting weeks following ongoing consultation with health authorities. Occupants of the building are recommended to download and activate the COVIDSafe App. The App can be downloaded from App Stores.

Joint statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan

Media release issue date: Thursday, 2 July 2020

Joint statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan On 16 March 2020 we advised of temporary and precautionary changes implemented as part of pandemic planning measures regarding the operations of Australian Parliament House (APH). On 25 March 2020 APH was closed to the public. Following advice from relevant health officials and the recent easing of restrictions announced by the ACT Government to allow public gatherings up to a maximum of 100 people, APH will reopen to the public on 4 July 2020. School visits will recommence on 20 July. Our COVID Safe reopening of APH to the public is similar to the reopening plans of other national institutions and takes into consideration that APH is a significant working space for thousands of people. Further advice on access to the public galleries of the Senate and House of Representatives, and to committee hearings, will be provided later this month, prior to the resumption of Parliament on 4 August. COVID Safe measures COVID Safe measures will be in place to support the staged reopening of APH and ensure the health and safety of visitors and those working within APH. These measures include: COVID Safe information, including reminding people who are unwell not to visit APH, will be provided upon booking and arrival; Collection of contact details upon booking should contact tracing be necessary; Single-flow movement of people and physical distancing monitored by tour guides; Additional cleaning of high-touch points in public areas; and, Cashless purchases at all outlets. Guided tours for the public From 4 July 2020, APH will open 7 days per week for free guided tours. These must be booked in advance at www.aph.gov.au/tours. Tours will run regularly for a 30-minute duration with up to 20 people. No more than 100 will be permitted in the public areas of APH at any one time. Access to the roof will not be available at this time. Following a successful introduction of the free guided tours, paid guided and pre-booked tours will be introduced for groups of up to 20 people from 1 August 2020. These informative tours on our Art and Furniture collection and APH architecture will include access to the APH roof. Return of school visits We are pleased to welcome the return of primary and secondary school visits from 20 July 2020. The APH School Visit Program includes a one-hour comprehensive guided tour of APH by Visitor Services staff and a one-hour interactive education program conducted by the Parliamentary Education Office. In accordance with the advice from officials, these groups will be kept separate from other visitors to the building. Access to the building We are continuing to trial access to the building for certain passholders including former parliamentarians, volunteers and sponsored pass holders. There should be no gathering or loitering in the public or private areas of the building including in the café or dining spaces and access remains for specific meetings with parliamentarians that have been arranged prior to coming to the building. As part of our cautious and staged approach to reopening the building, we are now planning for the return of events and functions. More details about this will be provided in following weeks. Measures implemented across APH The Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) continues to maintain measures across APH as part of the ongoing pandemic response: Physical distancing markers on floors at security screening points and food outlets; Hand sanitiser stations positioned in circulation spaces; Hygiene reminder signs in bathrooms; Additional cleaning of touch points such as door handles and lift buttons; Limiting access to tables in dining spaces according to ACT restrictions; Signs in lifts and committee rooms specifying the maximum number of occupants; and, All DPS food and retail outlets are cashless. These measures will reduce the risk of transmission and are consistent with advice from the ACT Government, Commonwealth Department of Health and Safe Work Australia. To reduce the risk of transmission, all building occupants must continue to follow the strict hygiene and social distancing requirements with which we have all become familiar. As the situation continues to evolve, building occupants will be kept informed of any change regarding the operations of APH. DPS will continue to provide regular updates regarding appropriate health measures via Information Circulars.

On 16 March 2020 we advised of temporary and precautionary changes implemented as part of pandemic planning measures regarding the operations of Australian Parliament House (APH).

Media release issue date: Friday, 5 June 2020

Joint statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan On 16 March 2020 we advised of temporary and precautionary changes implemented as part of pandemic planning measures regarding the operations of Australian Parliament House (APH). These measures can now be adapted to the changing restrictions on public gatherings. Some restrictions will need to remain in place, but operations are constantly being reviewed in line with guidance from health officials. Access to Parliament House APH remains closed to the general public; this includes the galleries in each chamber. Parliamentary proceedings may still be viewed through the APH website. Committee hearings held in APH during the next parliamentary sitting week will not be open to the public. Arrangements will be made for witnesses to appear in person if essential. Committee proceedings may be viewed through the APH website. All school group bookings remain cancelled or postponed. Work is currently underway to determine when these may recommence. The Department of Parliamentary Services is working with other national institutions that have similar programs. However, as APH is also a significant working space for thousands of people, special arrangements and restrictions will likely remain. The Event spaces in APH remain closed to any bookings. Limited café and dining facilities for building occupants are now available, in line with restrictions in place in the ACT. In-Room dining will be available. We will trial the removal of some of the temporary access restrictions that took effect on 23 March. That is, the following passholders will again be allowed to access the building, on certain conditions: Former parliamentarians; Elected members of other legislatures; Volunteers; and Sponsored pass holders. Access to the building for these passholders is conditional on it only being utilised as strictly necessary, for specific meetings with parliamentarians that have been arranged prior to coming to the building. Passholders are expected to remain in the building only as long as their business requires. No gathering or loitering in the public or private areas of the building, including in café or dining spaces is to occur, nor being based in a private office of the building. We understand that many of our colleagues wish to meet with external stakeholders as part of their parliamentary responsibilities, but as Presiding Officers we have a responsibility to comply with relevant regulations and for the safety of those in the building. The operation of this relaxation of access restrictions will be evaluated on a weekly basis and may be revoked if the above requirements are not complied with, and those breaching these requirements may lose access permanently. Building occupants must continue to ensure only those external guests needing to conduct essential business in Parliament House this week are signed in. Similarly, members of the Federal Parliamentary Press Gallery are also asked to continue to avoid non-essential attendance of escorted visitors. Facilities in Parliament House There have also been changes to facilities inside the building since the sittings of Parliament in May, including dining facilities and the Health & Recreation Centre. Detailed information about these changes will be circulated by the Department of Parliamentary Services. Measures implemented across Parliament House The Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) continues to implement measures across APH as part of the ongoing pandemic response: physical distancing markers on floors at security screening points and food outlets hand sanitiser stations positioned in circulation spaces hygiene reminder signs in bathrooms additional cleaning of touch points such as door handles and lift buttons limiting access to tables in dining spaces signs in lifts and committee rooms specifying the maximum number of occupants; and all DPS food and retail outlets are cashless. These measures will reduce the risk of transmission and are consistent with advice from the Australian Public Service Commission, Commonwealth Department of Health or Safe Work Australia. Australian states and territories have applied their own travel restrictions, including in some cases closing state borders. Parliamentarians have been requested to only bring essential staff to Canberra and Parliament House. At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information and advice is available from ACT Health and the Commonwealth Department of Health. As there are jurisdictional differences in the response to COVID-19, it is important to familiarise yourself with the current ACT Government advice. To reduce the risk of transmission, all building occupants must continue to follow the strict hygiene and social distancing requirements with which we have all become familiar. As the situation continues to evolve, building occupants will be kept informed of any change regarding the operations of Parliament House. DPS will continue to provide regular updates regarding appropriate health measures via Information Circulars.

On 16 March 2020 we advised of temporary and precautionary changes implemented as part of pandemic planning measures regarding the operations of Australian Parliament House (APH).

Media release issue date: Monday, 11 May 2020

Joint statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan On 16 March 2020 we advised of temporary and precautionary changes implemented as part of pandemic planning measures regarding the operations of Australian Parliament House (APH). These measures continue to be directed at reducing the risk of transmission while enabling the essential work of Parliament to continue. These measures will continue to apply for the foreseeable future, consistent with current National COVID-19 restrictions. Visitors to APH APH remains closed to the general public; this includes the galleries in each chamber. Parliamentary proceedings may still be viewed through the APH website. All school group bookings have been cancelled or postponed until 30 June; bookings from 1 July will be re-evaluated in June. The Event spaces in APH remain closed to any bookings. Whilst In-Room dining will be available, building occupants must abide by the restrictions governing the maximum occupancy of each room - 1 person for every 4 square metres (for example, only up to 5 people can gather in a 20 square metre room). Access restrictions that took effect on 23 March continue to apply. These restrictions were applied to some pass-holder categories to minimise non-essential visits to the building. The following categories of pass holders have temporarily lost automatic access to the private areas of the building: Former parliamentarians; Elected members of other legislatures; Volunteers; and Sponsored pass holders. Building occupants must ensure only those people needing to conduct essential business in Parliament House this week are signed in. Members of the Federal Parliamentary Press Gallery are also asked to avoid non-essential attendance of escorted visitors. All external departments and agencies should minimise attendance of public servants unless on essential business. Measures implemented across APH The Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) has implemented measures across APH as part of their ongoing pandemic response including: physical distancing markers on floors at security screening points and food outlets hand sanitiser stations positioned in circulation spaces hygiene reminder signs in bathrooms additional cleaning of touch points such as door handles and lift buttons removal of access to tables in dining spaces signs in lifts and committee rooms specifying the maximum number of occupants; and all DPS food and retail outlets are cashless. These measures will reduce the risk of transmission and are consistent with advice from the Australian Public Service Commission, Commonwealth Department of Health or Safe Work Australia. Parliamentary committees should give serious consideration as to whether their business is essential. While it is formally a matter for each parliamentary committee to consider, we recommend that Senate, House and joint committee hearings should continue to use video or teleconference facilities. Committee hearings held in APH during the next parliamentary sitting week will not be open to the public. Arrangements will be made for witnesses to appear in person only if essential. Committee proceedings may be viewed through the APH website. Australian states and territories have applied their own travel restrictions, including in some cases closing state borders. Parliamentarians have been requested to only bring essential staff to Canberra and Parliament House. At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information and advice is available from ACT Health and the Commonwealth Department of Health. As there are jurisdictional differences in the response to COVID-19, it is important to familiarise yourself with the current ACT Government advice. To reduce the risk of transmission, all building occupants must continue to follow the strict hygiene and social distancing requirements with which we have all become familiar. As the situation continues to evolve, building occupants will be kept informed of any change regarding the operations of Parliament House. DPS will continue to provide regular updates regarding appropriate health measures via Information Circulars. All of the measures outlined above will remain in place until further notice.

Following implementation of pandemic planning measures, ongoing consultations between the Presiding Officers, Parliamentary Departments and relevant Commonwealth officers and agencies including the Chief Medical Officer, the following temporary and precautionary changes have been made regarding the operations of Parliament House.

Media release issue date: Monday, 16 March 2020

Joint statement from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Tony Smith MP and the President of the Senate, Senator the Hon Scott Ryan Following implementation of pandemic planning measures, ongoing consultations between the Presiding Officers, Parliamentary Departments and relevant Commonwealth officers and agencies including the Chief Medical Officer, the following temporary and precautionary changes have been made regarding the operations of Parliament House. These measures are directed at reducing the risk of transmission while enabling the essential work of Parliament to proceed. Parliament House will remain open to the general public to access the public areas and Marble Foyer. However, the galleries in each chamber for the next parliamentary sitting week commencing Monday 23 March will be closed to the public. Parliamentary proceedings may still be viewed on the Parliament House website. All school group bookings and tours during the next parliamentary sitting week will be postponed or cancelled. A number of large events being held in the functions spaces of the building are being postponed or cancelled. From Monday 23 March, access restrictions will be applied to some pass-holder categories to minimise non-essential visits to the building. The following categories of passholder will lose automatic access to the private areas of the building. Former parliamentarians; Elected members of other legislatures; Volunteers; and Sponsored pass holders. Changes will be also made to the process for pass holders to sign-in visitors to Parliament House. Building occupants must ensure that only those people needing to conduct essential business in Parliament House next week are signed in. Members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery are also asked to avoid non-essential attendance of escorted visitors. From today, all external departments and agencies will be asked to reduce use of Commonwealth departmental passes to a minimum, and public servants encouraged to avoid non-essential attendance. Ahead of the next parliamentary sitting week, there will also be changes to the management of staff and operations of the chambers and the wider building, including catering facilities, to reduce the risk of transmission, consistent with advice regarding social distancing. While it is formally a matter for each committee to consider, we recommend that scheduled Senate, House and Joint committee hearings transition to using video or teleconference facilities as soon as possible. Committees should give serious consideration as to whether their business is essential. If any committee hearings proceed in Parliament House during the next parliamentary sitting week, they will not be open to the public. Arrangements will be made for witnesses to appear in person only if necessary. Committee proceedings may still be viewed on the Parliament House website. While the most recent advice is that there is no need to restrict domestic travel, Members and Senators are requested to only bring essential staff to Canberra and Parliament House for the next sitting week commencing Monday 23 March. At all times Senators, Members and staff should follow the advice of health authorities regarding the need to seek medical advice and treatment. Up-to-date official information is available at ACT Health. DPS will continue to provide regular updates to building occupants regarding appropriate health measures via Information Circulars. These decisions have not been taking lightly and are being taken following detailed discussion and advice from the relevant authorities. Further details will be provided over the course of the week as the advice to Presiding Officers evolves, and to all parties via the Whips as necessary.

Eight-hundred square metres of handcrafted poppies carpet the majestic Parliament House forecourt from this Friday until 18 November, to commemorate the centenary of the signing of the Armistice that ended the First World War.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 7 November 2018

Joint media release from the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives Eight-hundred square metres of handcrafted poppies carpet the majestic Parliament House forecourt from this Friday until 18 November, to commemorate the centenary of the signing of the Armistice that ended the First World War. The approximately 270,000 poppies have been handmade by men, women and children across Australia and overseas, as a tribute to Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peace-keeping operations. The Forecourt display is complemented by a second display, covering an outer wall of the Great Hall, overlooking the Marble Foyer. The Forecourt poppies create a visual pathway to an outdoor installation of poppies across the lake on the lawns of the Australian War Memorial, where 62,000 poppies have been ‘planted’ — one for each Australian life lost in the First World War. On 10 November, on the eve of Remembrance Day, a beam of light will be directed from the Australian War Memorial down Anzac Parade, across the lake to Australian Parliament House. The beam will reinforce the visual path of the carpet of poppies leading from the Parliament House forecourt, symbolising the deep connection between Parliament, where decisions are taken to involve Australians in war, and the Memorial, where that service and sacrifice are recognised. The Parliament House poppy displays are presented in partnership with the 5000 Poppies project, and with the support of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the European Union. The striking installations have been designed by award-winning landscape architect Phillip Johnson, who first teamed up with 5000 Poppies in 2015, to create a tribute garden at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. Later that year Mr Johnson again teamed up with 5000 Poppies to create an installation in Melbourne’s Federation Square. In May 2016, a 300,000-poppy installation was taken to the famous Chelsea Flower Show, and two months later poppies ‘bloomed’ at Fromelles, in France, to mark the centenary of the Battle of Fromelles. The Marble Foyer poppies will remain in place until 3 February, while the Forecourt poppies will remain until 18 November. Find out more about Parliament House’s Centenary of Armistice commemorative program at https://www.aph.gov.au/Visit_Parliament/Whats_On/Centenary_of_Armistice_1918-2018