Backbenchers

Backbenchers are those Members of Parliament who are neither party leaders, ministers or shadow ministers.

Backbenchers may be members of the House of Representatives or the Senate.

They are often known as "private members".

Overview of Backbenchers - the types of backbenchers, their roles in parliament, the party and the electorate, and factors affecting their operation.
Sussan Ley's First Speech to the House of Representatives - an example of the kind of speech new members of Parliament give when first elected. Once known as a Maiden Speech, it is now referred to as a First Speech. [February 13, 2002]
- First Speech By Senator Kerry Nettle - Nettle was elected as the Senate's second Australian Greens representative in 2001 [Aug 21, 2002]
Western Australian Government To Toughen MPs Disclosure Laws [Sep 14, 2002]

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