Senate Moves to Formalise Virtual Meetings

The Senate has approved a motion to amend its Standing Orders to allow virtual meetings during emergencies or when circumstances require it.

Leader of Government Business Senator Eamon Courtenay moved the motion during Tuesday’s sitting, citing public safety concerns and the growing workload of Senate committees. “This is a measure that is commended to the Senate to allow us to meet virtually when emergencies or experience requires,” Courtenay said.

The amendment builds on changes first introduced in April 2021, when virtual sittings were allowed in the interest of public health, public safety, national security, or a public emergency.

Opposition Senator Patrick Faber confirmed bipartisan support. “We are on the opposition side, signed in full support of the motion,” he said.

Business Senator Kevin Herrera also backed the move, pointing to efficiency and cost. He said travelling long distances for short meetings was “extremely inefficient as well as costly for the government.”

The motion was approved without opposition.