Today marked the first day of the 48th parliament of Australia, with politicians flocking to the capital for opening festivities. Milton Dick was re-elected as Speaker of the House and ceremonially dragged to his seat.

Canberra

Australia's 48th Parliament commenced with traditional ceremonies, including a welcome to country, a smoking ceremony, and the formal opening by the Chief Justice of the High Court. Prime Minister began his second term, and Milton Dick was re-elected as Speaker of the House, continuing parliamentary traditions. The opening day focused on unity and ceremony, but attention will soon shift to parliamentary business as the government prepares for its first question time and the opposition, led by Susan Lee, takes its place.

The day concluded with Governor-General Sam Mostyn summoning MPs and Senators, rounding out the formalities. The new parliamentary session is set to begin its legislative work, with the usual robust debates expected to follow.

Australia's 48th parliament opens with pomp and ceremony

No need for divine intervention as the Prime Minister officially begins his second term. It'll be a good day. Politicians from across the aisle. Booth full of vacuum cleaners ready to sell, sell, sell. Briefly uniting and putting politics aside. A tried and tested tradition to kickstart Australia's 48th Parliament. Every day is an opportunity to deliver for Australians. The number of seats that we now hold is a demonstration that we are at a low point. Then on to the Great Hall for a welcome to country. Before spilling out the front of Parliament House for a smoking ceremony. And a selfie for some to savour the moment. Then it was down to business. The traditional black rod marched over from the Senate to the House of Reps and back again, all for the Chief Justice of the High Court to declare. Open the 48th Parliament of the Commonwealth. 150 MPs, including a very patriotic Died Lee, took the oath. Do each of you swear that you will be faithful? Before Member for Oxley, Milton Dick. Is there a nomination? Was re-elected as Speaker of the House. And in great parliamentary tradition. Who's the Speaker? Dragged back to the Speaker's chair. To be chosen for this role for a second time is a profound honour. Federal Parliament is nothing without its tradition and ceremony. And today it was clear to be seen. But tomorrow the niceties will be put aside when the government faces question time for the first time. And it will also be a chance for the opposition to see how Susan Lee acts as leader. And a summoning of MPs and Senators by Governor-General Sam Mostyn to round out the day of formalities. The hours are tough, the work is dramatic. Which will all unfold tomorrow.

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