So let's recap:

Today was the first working parliamentary day for the Abbott Government.

The Government introduced the package of bills to repeal the carbon laws, including the emissions trading scheme.

The Government introduced the bill to repeal the mining tax and associated spending measures, including the school kids bonus and the low income superannuation contribution.

The Government amended the standing orders to limit debate and give more power to the Speaker, earning the wrath of the crossbenchers and the Opposition.

The Parliament is still debating the increase in the debt ceiling from $300bn to $500bn, with Labor's Chris Bowen on his feet.

Clive Palmer announced he would not vote on the carbon repeal bills, as there was a potential conflict of interest given his mining companies, though he did say his senators would not absent themselves from any vote. (The Senate is where the vote really counts.)

There was a slew of maiden speeches, the most notable and emotional included Northern Territory Senator Nova Peris and the member for Lindsay, Fiona Scott.

New ACT Liberal Senator Zed Seselja made the shock revelation that he was related to Labor Senator Stephen Conroy by marriage. Conroy failed to show for Zed's speech but Zed insisted blood was thicker than water.

Good night. Even a blogger deserves a break.

New Senator Nova Peris gives her maiden speech in the Senate. AAP Image for The Guardian/Lukas Coch Photograph: LUKAS COCH/AAPIMAGE

New ACT Senator Zed Seselja gives his maiden speech. AAP Image for The Guardian/Lukas Coch Photograph: LUKAS COCH/AAPIMAGE