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Parliamentarian

Represent the peoples' interests in constituencies as elected members of national, state and territory parliaments and local government authorities.

Parliamentarian

Parliamentarian

Roles and responsibilities

Parliamentarians:

  • present issues for debate and discussion in parliament
  • propose changes to existing legislation and policy that best serve the interests of the public and the electorate
  • investigate matters of concern to the public or particular interest groups
  • present petitions on behalf of concerned interest groups
  • serve on parliamentary committees or enquiries
  • manage an office in their home electorate and in the house of parliament

Most parliamentarians in Australia are members of political parties. You can also stand for election as an independent candidate. Parliamentarians who gain extensive experience and develop a high profile in parliament and in the community can be promoted to ministerial positions.

Ministers are responsible for managing a particular area of government such as defence or education. Experienced parliamentarians in opposition parties can become shadow ministers, who are responsible for developing their party's policies and leading debate in a particular area of government. Familiarity with specialist areas such as economics, finance, tourism and industrial relations may be advantageous to parliamentarians who are seeking particular portfolios.

Parliamentarians who are chosen to lead their party can become Prime Minister, Premier or Chief Minister if their party is elected to form government. Advancement to these levels of responsibility is dependent on talent, interpersonal skills, perseverance, and the number of years of experience.

Source: myFuture

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Roles and responsibilities

Parliamentarians:

  • present issues for debate and discussion in parliament
  • propose changes to existing legislation and policy that best serve the interests of the public and the electorate
  • investigate matters of concern to the public or particular interest groups
  • present petitions on behalf of concerned interest groups
  • serve on parliamentary committees or enquiries
  • manage an office in their home electorate and in the house of parliament

Most parliamentarians in Australia are members of political parties. You can also stand for election as an independent candidate. Parliamentarians who gain extensive experience and develop a high profile in parliament and in the community can be promoted to ministerial positions.

Ministers are responsible for managing a particular area of government such as defence or education. Experienced parliamentarians in opposition parties can become shadow ministers, who are responsible for developing their party's policies and leading debate in a particular area of government. Familiarity with specialist areas such as economics, finance, tourism and industrial relations may be advantageous to parliamentarians who are seeking particular portfolios.

Parliamentarians who are chosen to lead their party can become Prime Minister, Premier or Chief Minister if their party is elected to form government. Advancement to these levels of responsibility is dependent on talent, interpersonal skills, perseverance, and the number of years of experience.

Source: myFuture

Undergraduate Courses To Become

Parliamentarian

Recommended major/s to pursue this career

Relevant majors include:
student in front of bookcase Business Law student Economics single major Finance History
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Undergraduate Courses To Become Parliamentarian

Business Law

Law is a fundamental business discipline. Its study allows you to develop a wider perspective on both the business and regulatory landscape and specialised expertise that will not only enrich your business career but can also lay the foundations for successful postgraduate studies in law.

Economics single major

Studying Economics, you will understand the way the world works - the stockmarket, national economies, and the world economy.

Finance

Finance is the lifeblood of the economy – in finance you will learn how money and projects come together.

History

Studying History introduces you to the way we create the collective memory of the human race. This is not as easy as it sounds, as our memory can play tricks.

Indigenous Knowledge History and Heritage

A major in Indigenous Knowledge, History and Heritage will allow you to explore the worldview and historical experiences of Indigenous peoples in Australia as well as critically analyse Western disciplinary constructs around Indigenous knowledges and peoples.

Law and Society

The Law and Society major examines broad theoretical issues about the nature of law and society as well as how the relationship plays out in particular fields of legal and social policy at both domestic and international levels.

Philosophy

The study of Philosophy involves thinking about some of the big questions we ask during our lifetime.

Political Science and International Relations

Political Science and International Relations provides an understanding of governments and political systems in Australia and internationally.

Work and Employment Relations

Blend politics, law, sociology, economics, history, and more as you investigate and challenge the policies and institutions designed to help both employers and employees get the most out of their relationship.
Postgraduate Courses To Become

Parliamentarian

Coursework courses to pursue this career

Postgraduate study is not necessarily required for this occupation, but may be helpful for career advancement.

Relevant postgraduate courses include:
The Graduate Diploma in International Relations enables graduates to acquire theoretical and practical knowledge and skills relevant to the analysis of contemporary international relations, with particular reference to the Asian region. Graduate Diploma in International Relations Gain the skills and knowledge you need to tackle international issues. Master of International Relations Graduate Certificate in International Relations Further your studies in law. Graduate Diploma in Law
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Postgraduate Courses To Become

Parliamentarian

Research courses to pursue this career

Doctor of Juridical Science Doctor of Education

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