Labor Senator Defeats Greens Opponent to Retain Senate Presidency

Milton Dick returns unopposed as Speaker, pledges civics push and higher standards in Parliament.

President Sue Lines in the Senate chamber for the opening of the 48th Federal Parliament at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia on July 22, 2025. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

Labor Senator Sue Lines has been re-elected as president of the Senate, defeating Greens candidate Penny Allman-Payne in a ballot by 55 votes to 12.

Five informal votes were recorded.

One Nation party leader Pauline Hanson also unexpectedly nominated Independent Senator David Pocock, who respectfully declined the nomination.

“Just as surprised as people from NSW were in game three of the State of Origin,” Pocock joked, before confirming he would continue focusing on his ACT constituents.

The Coalition did not put forward a candidate.

After her win, Lines walked to the president’s chair, breaking from the House of Representatives tradition of the elected speaker being ceremonially “dragged” to their seat.

Lines, accepting Labor’s nomination, said she would aim to ensure “every voice is heard, in a respectful way” in the Senate.

Allman-Payne said she would bring decades of teaching experience to the role.

Milton Dick Returned to Speaker’s Chair

In the lower house, Labor MP Milton Dick was returned unopposed as Speaker. His nomination was moved by colleague Joanne Ryan and seconded by Nationals MP Michael McCormack.

Dick, who served as speaker in the last parliament, received applause from all sides of the chamber. He thanked his family, including his brother, Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick, and his sister, whom he described as “the most important member” of his family and a long-time teacher.

He also acknowledged McCormack, saying the Nationals MP often gave him advice “whether I like to hear it or not.”

Respect, Integrity and Youth Engagement in Focus

Outlining his agenda for the 48th Parliament, Dick said he would focus on raising the standards of parliamentary conduct and promoting civics education.

“This term, I will continue to look for ways to improve standards in this chamber … No role or title elected or otherwise exempts us from our obligation to create and foster a culture of safety, integrity and inclusion.”

He pledged zero tolerance for disrespectful behaviour and announced plans to visit every electorate to “champion” civic engagement among young Australians.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed Milton Dick’s re-election as Speaker, commending his “commitment to integrity and fairness” during the last term and describing him as a “steady hand” who understands the value of Parliament.

He said the House had shown its gratitude and expressed confidence in Dick’s continued leadership, guidance, and “mostly infallible, gracious rulings” as custodian of the 48th Parliament.

Opposition leader Sussan Ley also congratulated the Speaker on his re-election, praising his impartiality, calm approach, and efforts to engage young Australians through initiatives like Parliament in Schools.

She recalled visiting remote schools together, including one with just two students, noting the importance of making democracy accessible beyond the chamber.