New senator marks start of budget sittings

The swearing-in of a new senator marks the start of budget week parliamentary sittings.

Jenny McAllister will be sworn in as a senator for NSW on Monday, filling a vacancy caused by the resignation of Labor veteran John Faulkner.

Senators will also debate legislation that extends witness protection provisions under fair work laws and the merger of several tribunals during an extended sitting aimed at clearing a backlog of government bills.