This electronic brief provides a survey of parliamentary debate during the establishment of the parliamentary pension scheme for senators and members. By outlining the basis upon which the Parliamentary Retiring Allowances Bill 1948 was introduced, the e-brief hopes to assist debate on proposed changes to the scheme in 2004.

A selective chronology of legislative amendments since 1948 is provided to assist senators and members in their understanding of the scheme's development. Since 1952, several Committees have inquired into parliamentary entitlements, including superannuation benefits. Committees' recommendations are listed to give a complete picture of the impetus for legislative change. The Remuneration Tribunal does not determine on superannuation benefits, but has, in its annual reviews, commented on superannuation's place in the remunerative framework. These comments have been included. Lastly, the section entitled Recent Events summarises policy developments and proposed legislative changes.