The Despatch Boxes

The despatch boxes

The despatch boxes are located on either side of the House of Representatives Table at the end nearest the Speaker. They contain forms and religious books used during the swearing-in of new Members.

The Prime Minister, Ministers, Parliamentary Secretaries, the Leader of the Opposition and shadow Ministers stand at the despatch boxes when they speak in the House.

The origin of the despatch boxes

The despatch boxes on the Table of the House are a parliamentary tradition borrowed from the UK. The despatch boxes date back to early UK parliaments when Clerks and Members of Parliament carried their papers to the Chamber in boxes.

Australian House of Representatives Despatch Boxes

The despatch boxes used in the Australian House of Representatives Chamber were a personal gift from King George V (reigned 1910-1936) to mark the opening of Old Parliament House in 1927. The boxes are made of rosewood decorated with enamel and silver. There is an inscription signed by King George V inside the lid of each box.