The President is one of two Presiding Officers in the Tasmanian Parliament. They are the most senior Member of the Legislative Council. The President has many roles, including presiding over the meetings of the Legislative Council. The President makes sure that the Council follows correct parliamentary procedure and that debates are conducted fairly for all Members. Given the importance of their work, the President is respected by all Members of Parliament.
The current President of the Council is
the Honourable Craig Farrell MLC.
He was elected to the role on 21 May
2019.
What does the President do?
Work in the Chamber
During meetings of Parliament, the President makes sure that the Legislative Council follows its written rules, the Standing Orders. The President also makes sure that all Members have a opportunity to speak on matters before the Legislative Council.
Other responsibilities
The President is the main spokesperson for the Legislative Council. They play an important official role as a representative of the Parliament at meetings, functions, and ceremonies. Along with the Speaker of the House of Assembly, the President is responsible for the administration of the Parliament. The President also represents their electorate and has an electorate office to assist them with this role.
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How is the President chosen?
A new President is elected by the Members of the Legislative Council when the former President leaves the Parliament or steps down from the role. When the President stands for election (once every 6 years) they must be re-elected as President after they are re-elected as a Member.
The President is usually a Member who has a lot of experience in the Chamber. The President may be a member of a political party but when they take on the role of President they make an oath to be impartial. This means they will treat all Members equally and will not favour one party or Member over another.
Traditions and History of the President
The Robe
The President can choose to wear a black robe to show they are impartial, meaning they will treat everyone equally.
Past Presidents: Propsting, Murdoch, Shaw, Bailey, Smith and Wilkinson
Procession
Every sitting day, the President is escorted into the Legislative Council Chamber by the Usher of the Black Rod, carrying the Black Rod.