New Zealand

Here’s a chance for you to be part of a provocative and challenging group which is interested in Parliament, democratic systems the world over and the modern challenges they face. If you want to learn from interesting seminars and take part in free and frank discussions join the ASPG (Australasian Study of Parliament Group). We’re a politically neutral group made up of MPs; parliamentary staff; academics; writers; media; students and anyone else who is interested in the role of parliament.

What does the ASPG involve?

Regular seminars for members and their guests at Parliament on topical issues.
Opportunities to network pre-seminar with nibbles and a cash-bar.
An annual conference rotating between different states in Australia and New Zealand.
Publishes the Australasian Parliamentary Review journal twice a year.
Attracts expert speakers
Wants to encourage people to think and write about parliamentary institutions.

What’s coming up?

Watch this space for events in 2017.

What have we had recently?

Mary Harris QSM, former Clerk of the House, talking about her vision for Parliament’s future
A panel of women MPs from NZ and the Pacific talking about their experiences and challenges.
Annual Conference in Adelaide, with the theme of The Restoration and Enhancement of Parliaments’ Reputation.
Sir Geoffrey Palmer speaking on the merits of NZ adopting a written constitution
ASPG dinner and a panel presentation on Looking towards the 2017 election.
David Rutherford, Chief Human Rights Commissioner talking about higher living standards, sustainable development and human rights in New Zealand.

David talks about how Treasury’s work on Higher Living Standards and the commitments made in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals and in New Zealand’s international and domestic human rights obligations can be the basis of a coherent and measurable framework.

Watch the video of David’s presentation to the ASPG.