ACT Senator David Pocock is calling on the parliament to extend the number of sitting days in 2022 to make up for those lost due to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Pocock said more days are required to ensure sufficient time to debate bills regarding the restoration of territory rights and increased domestic violence leave.

“While I appreciate the conventions we observe following the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, following that I believe Australians expect politicians to be attending to the work of the parliament in debating and legislating on behalf of our communities and our constituents,” he said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese suspended parliament for 15 days following the death of the late monarch, whose funeral he attended  with Governor-General David Hurley yesterday.

Parliament is now proposed to return on September 23 for condolence motions only and then for three days from September 26-28.

Pocock will move a motion in the Senate to extend the sitting days to include September 29 and to consider an additional sitting fortnight later in the year.

“The Government has a raft of legislation it is seeking to pass by the end of the year, everything from 10 days paid Family and Domestic Violence leave to housing to the national anti-corruption commission,” said Pocock.

“For people in the ACT and Northern Territory in particular, seeing debate continue on the Restoring Territory Rights Bill is urgent and important.

“I don’t think it’s fair to put off debate until next year on this issue, and that is a real possibility given how few sitting days are left this year.”

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