Level 5 Mock Parliament Incursion

On Tuesday the 19th of August, the Level 5 team organised for our local Federal MP, Dr Carina Garland, to visit us as part of our Term 3 Inquiry learning. Dr Carina Garland MP is the Federal Member of Chisolm and gave us a systematic run down on the structure of the Federal Government. She also explained what they do, her role and how they help the constituents they represent in their electorates. Dr Garland connected with our students and provided specific details about the different roles members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Students deepened their understanding of how governments are formed following the procedures of Australia’s democracy. They also learnt about how bills are introduced to federal Parliament and the process they follow to become laws. 

During this interactive incursion, Dr Carina asked students to think about 3 changes they would make in the country if they were Prime Minister, where responses touched on ideas about pollution, crime, social media, public safety and pineapple on pizza. She conducted a role play to demonstrate a vote on a new bill and explained how debates in the chamber are conducted, including the rules that all members need to follow. At the end, she answered questions from our students. The session ended with a group photo with Carina.

Here is what our students learned from the incursion:

Ayaan – From the MP visit today, I learned that the Governor-General sits in the Senate, not the House of Representatives, because in the past the Senate was reserved for the wealthy, whereas the House of Representatives was for the less wealthy.

Saheli – I learned that if a Member of Parliament is absent, then the opposition team will inform one of their members not to attend on that same day to maintain the balance of numbers in Parliament.

Shanos – During the MP visit, I learned about the federal government. I learned that if there is a tied vote, then the Speaker has to vote as a tie-breaker. I also learned that if a Member of Parliament is frequently rude, they can be temporarily removed from one of the houses.

Rohith – I learnt that Dr Carina and other representatives have to go to Canberra 16-20 weeks each year. I would like to find out why the council doesn't have the privilege to change traffic laws but the State does.

Tiana – I enjoyed learning about the debating system in Parliament. I would like to find out where Parliament House is and what is inside it?

Vidit – I liked thinking about the 3 changes I would make as Prime Minister. I also enjoyed the vote when we learnt about the process of making and changing laws.

Aiden – I liked learning about the Speaker who stands at the front, runs the meetings in the House of Representatives, makes sure everyone follows the rules and treats everybody fairly.

Jasleen – I learnt about how they make laws and if there is a tie, the Speaker will have to vote. I loved when we had to vote if pineapple on pizza should be banned or if it should stay.