Senators Sworn In; New Balance Of Power As 2013 Federal Election Finally Complete

Senators elected at last year’s federal election were sworn in this morning. The full effect of the 2013 Federal Election can now be seen in the balance of power in the upper house.

Thirty-six senators were chosen at the election on September 7, six from each State. They were sworn in during a 20-minute ceremony presided over by the Governor-General, Sir Peter Cosgrove.

Watch the swearing-in ceremony (20m)

One senator, Deborah O’Neill (ALP-NSW) was appointed to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Bob Carr. O’Neill had already filled the final months of Carr’s previous term, following her defeat as the member for Robertson in the House of Representatives.

There are 12 new senators, including 3 from the Palmer United Party, 2 from the Liberal National Party, 2 from the Australian Labor Party and 1 each from the Liberal Party, Liberal Democratic Party, Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australian Greens and Family First.

For the first time since 2008, the ALP and the Greens have lost their majority control of the Senate. The Greens have lost their sole balance of power position and now share it with other parties and independents.

The government coalition of Liberal, LNP and Nationals holds 33 seats in the new Senate. It needs 6 extra votes to ensure passage of its motions and legislation. If support from the ALP and the Greens is not forthcoming, the government will need the support of the Palmer United Party and three other crossbenchers.