On 8 September 2022, the House Procedure Committee agreed to an inquiry into recommendations 10 and 27 of the Set the standard report. The terms of reference are available here.
The committee examined:
- ways to eliminate language, behaviour and practices in the chamber that are sexist or otherwise exclusionary and discriminatory
- ways to improve safety and respect in the chamber
- possible changes to the sitting calendar and Order of Business to enhance wellbeing, balance and flexibility for Members and workers in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces.
Matters such as codes of conduct and behaviour outside of the chamber are covered by other recommendations and was not considered as part of this inquiry.
The committee was particularly interested in hearing about how the standing and sessional orders could be changed to improve safety and respect, and to ensure women, First Nations people, LGBTIQ+ people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, or people with a disability are not excluded or discriminated against in the chamber.
The Committee's report, Raising the Standard: Inquiry into recommendations 10 and 27 of Set the Standard: Report on the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces, was tabled in the House of Representatives on Monday, 7 August 2023.
If you have any queries about the inquiry, please contact the committee secretariat using the details below.
Development of codes of conduct
The Joint Select Committee on Parliamentary Standards was established to inquire into the development of codes of conduct for Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces. Its final report was tabled on 29 November 2022.
Individual cases
The committee is not able to investigate or provide advice on individual circumstances. The Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS) supports people affected by serious incidents or misconduct in the parliamentary workplace. People with concerns should contact the PWSS directly.