Number of Asian-Australian MPs to rise in Canberra as Parliament make-up changes

SYDNEY – The number of Asian-Australian MPs in Australia’s Parliament is set to rise to 17 following the conclusion of a landmark election earlier in May, as the major parties eye the electoral and policy benefits of having a more culturally diverse range of candidates.

Though counting after

Australia’s federal election on May 3

is yet to be completed, the incoming Parliament, including the House of Representatives and the Senate, is expected to include 17 MPs with Asian heritage, or about 7.5 per cent of all 226 MPs.