Susan Templeman (Macquarie, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I mentioned in my most recent presentation statement that the committee was working to reduce the number of requests for petitions that don't comply with the standing orders. Our first step has been to create a one-page quick guide to petitions that sets out the petitioning rules that, in the committee's experience, petitioners seem to have the most trouble with.

The guide is on our website. But I've also sent it to all members of parliament as a resource they can share with their constituents, and I'd urge them to have a chat with their offices and make sure they know where it is and have it available, should they be asked. We know that members of parliament are routinely asked about how to petition the House. This simple guide can be emailed or printed and should assist Australians to make in-order petitions. There's also more detailed information on how to petition and the process for petitions on the petitions website.

We recognise that the offices of members of parliament are often the go-to place for questions on everything related to parliamentary procedure. The Petitions Committee is keen to ensure that members and their staff have all the information and resources they need in relation to parliamentary petitions.

I look forward to updating the House further on the work of the committee.