How is legislation passed in Queensland?

1. Introduction: Members of the Legislative Assembly or the Legislative Council, who are called "Members of Parliament" (MPs), can introduce a bill. The government or private members can do this. Bills must be accompanied by an explanatory memorandum that describes their purpose and effects.

2. First reading: The first reading is the bill's formal introduction to the Parliament. It is typically presented by the Member who authored it and briefly explained. The bill becomes public after this stage, and can be debated and amended.

3. Second reading: The second reading stage involves a more substantial debate on the principle and objectives of the bill. Members can speak for or against the bill, propose amendments, and vote to support or reject the bill. If the bill passes the second reading, it then proceeds to the committee stage.

4. Committee stage: The bill is scrutinised line-by-line by a committee of MPs, who may consider and vote on proposed amendments. The committee can alter or modify the bill, or recommend that it be rejected or withdrawn.

5. Report stage: The committee's report on the bill is presented to the relevant house, and MPs have the opportunity to further consider amendments at this stage. Amendments not put forward in the committee stage can be introduced.

6. Third Reading and Royal Assent: Once amendments have been considered, the bill is read for the third time. A final vote is taken, and if successful, the bill is forwarded to the Governor of Queensland for royal assent, which is the formal agreement to make it into a law.

7. Promulgation: After receiving royal assent, the bill becomes an Act of Parliament. It is published in the Queensland Government Gazette, officially putting it into effect as a law.

These are the general steps for passing legislation in Queensland, and the specific procedures may have additional considerations and requirements depending on the nature of the bill and the standing orders of the Parliament.