How a Bill Becomes Law


Most Bills go through the same stages in both Houses. Bills can also start in either House, but traditionally bills are tabled in the House of Assembly. Once a bill has passed through one House, the bill will then be signed by the Speaker and sent to the Senate. The bill will then go through the same stages as listed below. After the bill has been approved in both Houses, it will go to the Premier and then to the Attorney General Chambers for review and then finally sent on to the Governor where it will be signed and then assent. 

First Reading  - Formal Presentation

Second Reading – House Debate on General Principle

Committee – Detailed examination of clauses and proposed amendments

Report – Consideration of Committee amendments and the opportunity to implement any additional changes

Third Reading – Final Debate on Bill as a whole