Australian lower house sits fewest days in 20 years

The Australian Parliament's lower house will sit for only 40 days in 2025, the fewest in two decades, limiting time for legislative scrutiny. This reduced schedule, two weeks less than the average for election years, has drawn criticism, with accusations of a "part-time parliament." The government defends the calendar, citing procedural efficiency improvements. The limited sitting days, particularly in May and June, will delay the implementation of promised legislation, such as the student HECS debt cut. The opposition has expressed concerns about the government's agenda.