Friday, 10th May, 1901
Australia's First Parliament: Setting the Stage for a Nation
- Duration:8 mins 43 secs
- Updated: Sat, 05 Apr 2025 20:05:21 AEDT
- Version: 25
Episode Summary
House of Representatives
The Usher of the Black Rod summoned the House to the Senate. Deakin introduced a Bill on parliamentary language interpretation. Barton proposed a select committee for an Address in Reply to the Governor General’s speech, scheduled for May 21. Standing orders were tabled for printing. Adjournment was debated, settling on 3:30 PM or 4:00 PM on May 21. Issues regarding the Pacific Cable, Hansard publication, and a petition were raised.
Senate
The Governor-General opened Australia's first Parliament, highlighting key legislation: adapting departments, creating a High Court and trade commission, regulating public service, selecting a federal capital, restricting immigration, and conciliation in industrial disputes. Financial proposals depended on state finances, aiming for a protective tariff. Defence would rely on citizen soldiery. The Senate adjourned until May 21st, after agreeing to a time change, to address standing orders and appoint a committee to reply to the Governor-General's address.