Federal politicians could soon lose one protection from being held up to ridicule, with independent senator Nick Xenophon introducing a bill that would allow the satirical rebroadcasting of parliament.
Current laws prevent shows such as The Chaser or The Project using the broadcast of federal parliament to make fun of politicians, a situation that Senator Xenophon says is itself "deserving of ridicule".
"It is both pompous and precious to expect to be above reproach, and it also demonstrates an unwillingness to own up to mistakes, gaffes or just plain stupidity," Senator Xenophon said on Wednesday.
The bill would prevent the Joint Committee on the Broadcasting of Parliamentary Proceedings from prohibiting the satirical use of the parliamentary broadcast.
"Quite frankly, it's time to lighten up and open our parliament to the sharp knives of satirists everywhere," Senator Xenophon said.
"The reasons behind this are more than just a belief that politicians shouldn't be above reproach. It is also based on the fact that satire has become a valid source of news and information for many people."
Debate on the Parliamentary Proceedings Broadcasting Amendment Bill 2013 has been adjourned to a later date.
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