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The Australian Senate has voted to retain Christian prayer, including the Lord's Prayer, at the start of daily business. The Senate’s Procedures Committee found no compelling reason to change the status quo with the vast majority of the 800 submissions received opposing the change, including one from FamilyVoice Australia.

"This wise action is to be commended," said FamilyVoice National Secretary David d'Lima. “This practice is in keeping with the spirit of the Preamble to the Constitution, by which 'the people ... humbly relying on the blessing of Almighty God have agreed to unite…' And also, the decision is coherent with the basis of Australia's national identity, customs, laws, values and institutions."

It is always deeply gratifying to get a good result when we have put time into a submission or a campaign. While it may seem peripheral to the main business of Parliament, this prayer speaks to the very basis of our national wellbeing, for in doing so the Parliament humbly asks Almighty God for His blessing upon Parliament, and that He “direct and prosper (their) deliberations to the advancement of (His) glory, and the true welfare of the people of Australia.” A great prayer. We thank our supporters for resourcing us to do this important work.