Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Parliamentary Press Gallery?

The right of journalists freely to report Parliament was first recognised by Mr Speaker Abbot in May 1803. Since then the Press Gallery has grown and now represents the more than 300 newspaper, wire service, radio, television and internet journalists whose job requires them to be based on the Parliamentary estate. It is run by officers and a committee, elected annually from amongst its members.

How do I become a member?

Members of the Press Gallery are employed by their individual media organisations, each of which has been recognised by the Parliamentary authorities as reporting regularly on Parliament and the political process. The number of passes allocated to each organisation is a matter for the Parliamentary authorities.

As with anyone working on the Parliamentary estate in whatever capacity, all members of the Press Gallery must undergo a security clearance. Without such clearance it is not possible for an individual to be included in an organisation’s quota of passes or to work in Parliament.

Recognition of media organisations and the issue of passes is at the discretion of the Parliamentary authorities and the Press Gallery has no input into or control over the process.

Can I access the Press Gallery on an occasional basis?

There is no access for journalists who are not pass holders unless accompanied by a member of the Press Gallery to whom they are known and who has secured a temporary guest ticket on their behalf.

What facilities does the Press Gallery provide?

Office accommodation within the Press Gallery area is limited and is allocated on a case by case basis at the discretion of the officers of the Press Gallery.

What are the arrangements for journalists representing overseas media organisations?

Please see separate Foreign Press Association page.