All sides of politics have welcomed new Speaker Tony Smith who has promised to redraw battlelines on the floor of parliament.

Mr Smith made it clear he wanted to be a fair adjudicator, offering an olive branch to the Opposition in his opening speech after being unveiled as Bronwyn Bishop’s replacement on Monday.

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“Parliament is a robust place … it is the arena for the battle of ideas and ideals,” he said.

“But it needn’t be rude and it needn’t be loud – that is something I’d like to see improved.”

Facing the Prime Minister during his speech, Mr Smith said he also enjoyed friendships with Labor MPs Richard Marles and David Feeney.

Mr Smith also promised to work with the leader of the House, manager of opposition business and independent members.

Labor and the Greens welcomed the new appointment after a frosty relationship with former Speaker Bishop, who was forced to resign over the expenses saga.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten voiced hope in the new Speaker.

“Today is a chance to lift the standards of this parliament, to return them to a level which Australians rightly expect of their representatives,” he said.

Greens MP Adam Bandt said the party welcomed Mr Smith returning balance to the house.

“Over 20 per cent of Australians don’t vote for either Labor or the coalition,” he said.

“When you look to one side, then to the other, please remember to look down the middle as well.”