Parry stepping up in Senate

You have to feel sorry for the Senate. It has its fancy Latin name, sure. And there's all that la de da reviewing of legislation. But the Senate is often seen as the scrawnier, poorer cousin of the House. Its ruby hues paling in comparison to the big green behemoth across the parquetry.

Yesterday it was the Senate's time to twinkle a little. With 12 new members and a power balance shake-up, it was the parliamentary equivalent of a new pair or shoes and a new haircut.

To boost the star power, the Governor-General turned up first thing to swear in the new guys, throwing colour-clashes to the wind in a bright pink coat.

Oaths of allegiance sworn and done, it was time to elect a president and deputy president. With Labor nominating Bob Hogg for another term in the high chair, this should have been a mere formality. However, Bob Brown attempted an upset by nominating fellow Green senator Scott Ludlam for the post. It didn't work, with Hogg taking it out 62 to nine (there are nine Greens in the Senate). Nor did it work for the deputy position, when Liberal Stephen Parry beat Ludlam 61 to nine. Still, it sent a loud, clear message to the Old Way of Doing Things. Don't get too comfy, Old Way. We've got nine votes and we're not afraid to use them.

Senator Parry, a former funeral director and police officer who was elected to the Senate in 2004, said it was an honour and a privilege to be elected.

While the role includes a new office that boasts a courtyard it will also require Senator Parry to ensure committees are functioning properly, and to fill the president's role when required.

Senator Parry's duties also will demand that he is "more bipartisan".

"I can still have my strong affiliation and strong views as a Liberal member, but I have to ensure a more fair view," he said. "Coming from the position of Whip, where I was focusing on one side, it will be a challenge, but all other deputy presidents have managed so I'm confident I will, too."

Senator Parry's appointment follows a greening of the Senate, with the Greens now holding sway in the Upper House whenever there is a disagreement between the Gillard Government and the opposition Coalition.

Senator Parry said there had already been a notable difference, with the Greens earning more questions in Question Time yesterday.