Milton Dick (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I want to take this opportunity to respond to a question asked of me by the member for Gippsland yesterday. In response to the member's query, I have reviewed the previous use of the term 'rort' by members. The particular expressions used are important in determining whether something is in order. Recent practice is that 'rort' has been permitted in circumstances where it is used to describe the nature of behaviour or an activity. This term is not permitted, however, when it is ascribed as personal behaviour to an individual member. That usage clearly would be an unparliamentary use of the word 'rort' and, if so used, a member would be asked to withdraw. I can assure the member I am listening carefully to the questions and to the answers. As a general reminder, members should raise any points as appropriate at the time they occur. I thank the House.