I am incredibly humbled to have been appointed as one of the House of Representative’s Assistant Deputy Speakers.

In this role, I will assist the Speaker of the House of Representatives (and his Deputies), taking the Chair from time to time and presiding over the deliberations of the House.

The role of Speaker is an integral component of our democracy. The Speaker must uphold order in the Parliament and ensure that Parliamentary rules and protocols are adhered to by all.

I consider it a great privilege to have been appointed to the Parliament’s Speaker’s Panel, and thank my colleagues from both sides for entrusting this great responsibility to me.

I take on board these new responsibilities with great humility, and look forward to working with the Speaker and his Deputies to support the functions of our Democracy, our House and the Parliament.

As an Acting Deputy Speaker, I will continue to fulfil my existing electoral duties within the Parliament, its Committees, and as the Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee into Health, Aged Care and Sport.