About Parliament

Warren Snowdon is one of the 150 parliamentarians who were elected to the House of Representatives on 9 October 2004.  Along with 76 Senators, these parliamentarians make up Australia's 41st Parliament.

Members of the House of Representatives come to Parliament to represent directly the people in their electorates.  The House of Representatives, pictured on the right, is also known as the 'lower house'.  Most changes to Commonwealth laws (legislation) are introduced and debated in this chamber.

Senators are elected to represent their States and Territories.  The Senate, also known as the 'upper house', examines and reviews the legislation that is passed by the House of Representatives.  All changes to legislation must also pass through the Senate before they become law.

You can find out more about how Parliament works by visiting the Parliamentary Education Office.  The PEO has a range of resources for teachers and students, and can also provide assistance in organising school trips to Parliament.

If you want more detailed information about Parliament's activities, visit Parliament's website.

Petitioning Parliament

A petition is a request for the Parliament to take action on an issue of concern to people in the community. They are the only direct means by which the people can express a grievance to the Parliament. Petitions are presented to the Parliament by its Members.

There are some requirements that petitions must meet so that they can be presented to the Parliament. If you are drafting a petition for presentation to the Parliament, read this information sheet on petitioning the House of Representatives.

Copyright © 2004-5 Warren Snowdon MP. This page was last updated on 25 June 2009.