Today in Parliament Legislative Council

Notice of motion No. 371 acknowledging the October 2022 flood event and the devastating impact it had on communities in Victoria.

The President begins the day by reading the Lord's Prayer and making an Acknowledgement of Country. After this, the President reads any messages received from the Governor and the Legislative Assembly. 

During formal business the Council deals with administrative issues. These include introducing bills, tabling petitions and reports and giving notices of motions (proposals) for later debate. 

Members make statements on any topic. 

This debate lasts for around 15 to 20 minutes. 

Debates on matters which ministers have introduced to Parliament. These can include bills (proposed laws) and motions (other proposals). 

Question time allows non-government members to ask questions, usually to ministers, about the Government's decisions and actions. These questions are called questions without notice, because ministers have not seen them beforehand. Question time happens every sitting day. 

If the minister’s answer is not responsive, the President may order the minister to provide a written answer.

Ministers may also make ministers’ statements during question time. 

Members ask questions which relate to their own electorate. Ministers respond later in writing. 

Debates on matters which ministers have introduced to Parliament. These can include bills (proposed laws) and motions (other proposals). 

At the end of the sitting day, the President stops debate. Unless a minister decides or members vote to continue the sitting, the adjournment debate will begin. Members can raise matters with ministers.

The topics are wide ranging, but members must request ministers take action in areas of government responsibility. Ministers can respond after all matters have been raised or later, in writing.