Notwithstanding the differences, the Australian and American Senates are comparable in being among the very strongest upper houses in the world, and in demonstrating the value of bicameralism in democratic governance. US political scientist Stanley Bach analyses the major differences between the Australian and US upper houses.

Although it was once believed that courts simply declare authoritatively what the law is - leaving any change in the law to our elected representatives - that myth was exploded long ago. The courts make law, and the High Court makes more than most. How, then, does this sit with the law-making responsibility of the...

The expulsion of an MP is an example of the power of a parliament to regulate its own constitution and composition for the purpose of preserving its dignity and efficiency, as well as to preserve public confidence in the institution. It is an ultimate sanction that is rarely used. This Briefing Paper sets out the...

The Senate Order on Agency Contracts aims to ensure parliamentary scrutiny of government activities in the face of increased use of confidentiality as a ground to withhold information from the public and from parliament. This research note examines the Order and the government's response.

Beginning by by examining the numbers of women in Australian parliaments, particularly in NSW and at federal level, this paper looks at the extent to which women are represented in various political parties and in more senior political positions. The paper explores why women remain underrepresented despite numerous national and global initiatives to improve the...