Parliaments are central to Australia’s democracy – they are key to democratic representation, law-making and accountability. But how are they to properly function in the COVID-19 pandemic where there are severe public health restrictions and substantial increases in executive power?

Is a virtual Parliament the answer to this difficulty? What are its strengths and limitations? Is a virtual Parliament workable? Senate President Scott Ryan will take up these questions drawing upon his experience organising a virtual sitting of the Senate whilst Professor Anne Twomey will provide commentary.

This event is co-hosted by the Electoral Regulation Research Network, Gilbert + Tobin Centre of Public Law, and Melbourne School of Government.