With all the bickering and disagreements, sometimes federal politics can feel like it's going in circles.
Yet bipartisan parliamentary friendship groups allow even the most politically discordant senators and MPs to find a common path.
There are parliamentary friendship groups dedicated to issues ranging from asthma and netball to recreational fishing and shooting.
Following a campaign by We Ride Australia, a new parliamentary friendship group has been established to boost the status of cycling in Australia.
We Ride is a registered charity aimed at promoting cycling among Australians. It also advocates for policies and investments that will make cycling safe and accessible. For over 15 years it has run Riders on the Hill, an informal cycling group which encourages federal politicians to get out the Lycra and go for a ride beyond the political divide.
We Ride national advocacy director Stephen Hodge said after the success of Riders on the Hill and the uptick in cycling during COVID-19, it was time the charity found a bolder advocacy platform.
"It really came to the point that I went searching for a parliamentary cycling champion," he said.
Mr Hodge first approached Liberal MP Dave Sharma to be that "champion" for cycling. Together they decided that creating a parliamentary friendship group was the best course of action.
"As an enthusiastic rider myself, I'm keen for the Parliament to get behind this trend and do more to encourage people to lead active lifestyles," Mr Sharma said.
Mr Sharma will co-chair the group alongside Labor MP Andrew Leigh and independent MP Helen Haines.
Twenty-three other parliamentarians have signed up to support the group.
"That's quite unusual, so there's a really terrific interest," Mr Hodge said.
Dr Haines, who represents the rural Victorian seat of Indi, said the benefits of cycling, from physical and mental health to the economy, will roll through local communities.
"The economic benefits through cycle tourism are really important and will continue to contribute to our communities as we emerge and recover from the COVID-19 lockdown," she said.
"I have strong memories of learning to ride a bike ... the thrill of finding my balance has lasted a lifetime."
Dr Leigh said cycling was intertwined with the Australian story.
"No part of Australia loves cycling more than my home city of Canberra," he said.
"From the 6am bunch ride to mountain biking with my kids, cycling is one of life's true pleasures, and I'm keen to encourage its uptake nationwide."
The friendship group, with the assistance of Mr Hodge, will meet to learn about and advocate for cycling.
"Its a great platform to talk about the benefits of new technology like e-bikes, and how pop-up bike lanes have facilitated travel during lockdown," Mr Hodge said.
"We can't underestimate the interest across the community in being active and healthy."
