 A number of "domestic" committees had operated since the establishment of the parliament, but prior to 1970 the only significant committee to be established was the Regulations and Ordinances Committee in 1932, one of the "legislative scrutiny" committees (see below).In 1970, the present committee system was created, with a series of standing (permanent) committees established that mirrored the portfolio activities of government.These reforms significantly enhanced the expertise and power of the Senate