Queensland MPs officially sworn in

By Sarah Richards

Queensland’s new 89 MPs were sworn in at a ceremony at Parliament House in Brisbane today.

The LNP holds 78 of the 89 seats in Queensland Parliament (Photo: Sarah Richards)

Of the 89 new members, 51 were taking their seat for the first time, including Premier Campbell Newman.

The LNP holds 78 of the 89 seats in Parliament after their landslide win in March.

The Labor Opposition holds just seven seats, with independents and Katter’s Australian Party each holding two.

Governor Penny Wensley will oversee the official opening of the 54th Parliament tomorrow.

Tim Nicholls, Campbell Newman, Jeff Seeney — Campbell Newman walked down George St to Parliament flanked by Treasurer Tim Nicholls (left) and Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney(right). Photo: Sarah Richards

Mr Newman will not make his maiden speech in Parliament until Thursday.

The Member for Maroochydore, Fiona Simpson, was elected Parliamentary Speaker.

Ms Simpson has made parliamentary history as the first female to be elected in the role.

Mr Newman has vowed the role of Speaker will be returned to its former glory after controversial changes to the running of Parliament last year.

Opposition Leader Annastacia Palaszczuk welcomed the election of the new Speaker, saying it was the first time in more than two decades the Opposition had done so.

The day did not go completely without a hitch, with protesters outside Parliament House calling for a stop to uranium mining in Queensland.

Related link: Find your local Member on the Queensland Parliament website.