Parliamentary Procedure

President, Absence

The CLERK: I have to advise the council of the unavoidable absence of the President this day.

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer) (14:18): I move:

That the Hon. T.J. Stephens do take the chair as Deputy President.

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:18): Seconded.

Motion carried.

The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (Hon. T.J. Stephens) took the chair at 14:19 and read prayers.

The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional owners of this country throughout Australia, and their connection to the land and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to the elders both past and present.