Thread by @KateRainbirdTas

Crossbenchers who need twice as many staffers as backbenchers to do the same job are probably not the best people for the job. The idea that major Party MPs don't need to read or understand legislation because they vote on Party lines is ridiculous. #auspol

Every MP is accountable for their vote, and they contribute to the Party's position. The idea that they have a vast "machine" to support them is also a fallacy. Eg Tasmanian Labor has just 2 paid staff – and they work full-time on Party administration. #auspol

The reality is that every MP and Senator could use more help. The high number of staff crossbenchers have recently enjoyed is not due to greater need, it's the legacy of a sweetener first agreed to by Abbott and maintained by his successors to try and keep them on side. #auspol

@AlboMP is restoring balance, and he's still giving the crossbenchers 1 extra staffer. If any withhold their support on legislation because they're not getting the perks they were expecting, then their claims of wanting more integrity in politics amount to nought. #auspol

For the people saying independents need to be across every issue, but other MPs don't. In the lower house, with a majority government, crossbench votes won't change outcomes, so why would they need to be more across the issues than government backbenchers? #auspol

In the Senate, when crossbench votes are needed, you can bet your life they'll get thorough briefings from both major parties, as well as external interest groups, presenting the various cases for and against. They aren't sitting alone in the dark. #auspol