BY DAKOTA TAIT
The 47th Federal Parliament kicks off today, with Hunter MPs taking to the government benches for the first time in their careers.
Shortland MP Pat Conroy, Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon, and Paterson MP Meryl Swanson have been in opposition since their respective elections, but will finally cross the chamber as Labor claims power.
Ms Claydon is also the party's pick for Deputy Speaker, with Queensland MP Milton Dick likely to be Speaker.
The Government is expected to take steps toward major aged care reform and the implementation of ten days paid domestic violence for all workers.
"It's finally an opportunity to put on the agenda all of the things that the people of Newcastle voted for," Ms Claydon said.
"This first week of Parliament, for a new Labor Government, is to first and foremost start bringing Australians together, creating that better future that we put to the Australian people at the election."
It's Hunter MP Dan Repacholi's first time altogether as a member, one of 35 new MPs in the Lower House.
He's a fresh face in the Canberra ranks, but won't be delivering his inaugural speech on Tuesday.
The former sport shooter says he's looking forward to his first term in Parliament.
"Pumped, to be honest," he said. "This is an amazing thing to represent the Hunter, and an amazing thing to represent Australia."
"To be in the Australian Federal Government, it's an amazing thing to do."
