Seminar | Then & Now: People, Power and Representation

From the reforms that transformed parliamentary democracy and delivered social reform to the trails blazed by people inside and outside the chamber, this panel disussion is a unique opportunity to hear the complex, colourful and powerful stories behind Australia’s very first Parliament and the diverse communities it represents.

This is the first in our special Bicentenary Seminar Series, held throughout 2024 to mark the 200-year anniversary of the Legislative Council. The series brings together Council members past and present for a fascinating conversation exploring the big moments in the Council’s development and its representation of diverse NSW communities.

Hear from a terrific line-up of members as they share their stories and reflections on the Council’s development, as well as their hopes and visions for a robust democracy of the future.

Panellists

• The Hon Ben Franklin, President of the Legislative Council (moderator)

• Dr Meredith Burgmann, former President of the Legislative Council

• Dr Peter Phelps, former Member of the Legislative Council

• The Hon Courtney Houssos MLC, Minister for Finance. Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement and Minister for Natural Resources

• The Hon Robert Borsak MLC

• Ms Abigail Boyd MLC

• The Hon Chris Rath MLC