ACT considers expanding parliament from 25 to 35 members
The ACT is examining whether to expand parliament from 25 to 35 members. A review raised workload risks.
A committee in the Australian Capital Territory is examining whether to expand the Legislative Assembly. The Assembly could grow from 25 to 35 members.
The Latimer House Principles review recommended this increase. The review said too few MPs risk undermining the territory's achievements.
The ACT is unique. The Assembly performs both state and local government functions.
The five electoral districts each have five MPs. They are from ACT Labor, the Canberra Liberals, the ACT Greens and two independents.
Experts have recommended growing the Assembly for years. A 2013 review proposed 25 members, achieved in 2016.
It also proposed 35 members, not yet adopted.
- 25
- Current members
- 35
- Proposed members
- 1989
- Self-government started
Why it mattersMore MPs would spread the workload. They would improve scrutiny of government and proposed laws. But expansion would cost the territory money.
AustraliaCanberra residents would have more elected representatives if the expansion proceeds, potentially improving local political representation.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 11 d ago
