The role of a member

An MP is:

• A member of the Legislative Assembly (Lower House).
• Each represents one of New South Wales’ 93 electoral districts (electorates) in Parliament.

An MLC is:

• A member of the Legislative Council (Upper House).
• Represents the whole State, but major parties usually allocate regional responsibilities to individual MLCs.

In their electorate, MPs:

• Receive requests for assistance and information from local people (for example, housing, transport, environment, taxes, etc.). They try to solve these problems or refer them to Ministers or other authorities.
  
• Meet with local organisations, businesses, media and government departments and find out their needs.
• Make representations to Ministers on behalf of local organisations and individuals.
  
• Support provision of local services and facilities from government funds.
  
• Be involved in local functions and meetings, and support local organisations and events.
  
• Attend party branch/local supporters meetings.

In Parliament, all members:

• Form part of Government, Opposition or Independents (or ‘Cross Bench’).
• Attend sittings of Parliament.
• Consider proposed legislation (they may also propose Private Members’ Bills).
• Participate in debating and voting.
• Participate in Parliamentary committees.
  
• Network with other members, media, community groups.
• Raise issues in Parliament on behalf of constituents through such means as: questions during Question Time, making Private Members’ statements, and presenting petitions.
• May have additional responsibilities such as a Minister or holder of parliamentary or party office (for example Speaker, Whip).
• Participate in party meetings, party organisation and decision-making.