Usher of the Black Rod, Craig Muir

The Usher of the Black Rod is a parliamentary officer and not a Member of Parliament. They work in the Legislative Council. Their role as a member of the Clerk's team is to help maintain order in the Chamber and to make sure procedures are followed correctly.

The Usher also escorts the President into the Chamber every day, carrying the Black Rod over their right shoulder. Like other members of the Clerk's team, the Usher of the Black Rod wears a black robe in the Chamber, to show they are apolitical. "Apolitical" means they do not express a political opinion.

The Usher of the Black Rod, along with the Sergeant-at-Arms in the House of Assembly, is also responsible for the security of Parliament House.

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History

The name of the Usher of the Black Rod comes from the black rod they carry.

Ushers of the Black Rod George Evans and John Reid

The Black Rod is the symbol of the authority of the Legislative Council and the President of the Legislative Council. The role was established by King Edward III in 1361 and was a part of the English King's bodyguard. When the Usher carried the Black Rod, it was a symbol of the King's authority and gave them power to arrest people in the name of the King. Later the role and the rod became associated with the upper House of the British Parliament, the House of Lords, and this role and symbol were adopted by the Tasmanian upper House, the Legislative Council.

In the past, the Usher of the Black Rod wore a long-tailed coat, knee-breeches or kilt, court shoes, gloves, lace collar and sword.

Opening of Parliament

The Usher of the Black Rod has a key role in the opening of a new Parliament after a state election.  The Usher is sent from the Legislative Council to the House of Assembly to summon the Members of the House of Assembly to hear the Governor's address. The Usher uses the Black Rod to knock on the door of the House of Assembly Chamber. The House Members then follow the Usher back to the Legislative Council.