Greens’ Senator Richard Di Natale wanted to replace the prayer with a minute of silence. He says the prayer is not representative of Australian culture.
“It’s my view, it’s the Greens’ view that in a 21st century, modern economy like Australia, a multi-cultural country that it’s no longer appropriate to begin the day in the parliament with the Lord’s Prayer.”
Greens first announced plans to remove the prayer a month ago.
Di Natali: Lord's Prayer "no longer appropriate"
Listen: Should we have prayers in parliament?
Since 1901, the Christian prayer has been recited at the beginning of every sitting day.
The Greens suggest the following should be read instead of the prayer:
''Senators, let us in silence pray or reflect upon our responsibilities to the people of Australia, to the States and Territories which we represent, and to all future generations.''
Comment: Hallowed be thy Parliament
Greens argue that religion has no place in parliament and that it stay a private matter.
Have your say: Do you think the Lord's prayer should still be recited in parliament?
