Andrew’s First Week

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

The new Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, spent last week familiarising himself with his new role, attending orientation and training in both Canberra and Brisbane.

Before he can officially start the job, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese must call parliament, at which time the seats will be declared, and writs issued.

Mr Willcox will then be given an official date for the first parliament sitting and sworn into office before he gives his maiden speech.

Last week, however, it was all about orientation in Canberra - learning new security procedures and finding his way around parliament.

With between four and five thousand people working at Parliament House each day, Mr Willcox said “it was like a small city in itself”.

“It was incredible to go into the National’s Party Room, looking at all the photos of the previous leaders,” said Mr Willcox.

“Just walking around Parliament House, seeing all the history – it was very impressive.”

For the new inductee, getting around took an innovative approach with the colour of the carpet dictating who went where.

Mr Willcox reported that the House of Representatives (which he is part of), follows the green carpet, the Senate navigates by using the red carpet and the Minister’s office with the blue.

At the time this was written, Mr Willcox was still waiting for his seat to be officially declared and says he has been checking the AEC website each day but has been assured he will receive a phone call when it is declared.

Did you know? - Willcox received 60.4% of the votes in last month’s election