Parliament's upper house has been waiting for answers to more 2000 questions to government on issues from indigenous affairs to broadband.

The answers to questions, first made through public hearings in May and June, were due by July 30.

Queensland Liberal Russell Trood says the delay is unacceptable.

The Senate estimates hearings covered every part of government business from defence to trade and finance and sport.

"The respective agencies have had plenty of time to answer the questions and further delays cannot be justified," Senator Trood said in a statement on Friday.

The tenuous outcome of the election meant issues had to be addressed by Prime Minister Julia Gillard if her commitment to transparency was to be kept.

"While this type of procrastination was typical of the Rudd government it should not become the precedent for the Gillard government if greater accountability is to mean anything," Senator Trood said.

The Senate's economics committee was, at the latest count on Thursday, still waiting for more than 600 answers, 415 of those related to Treasury.

Senators on the rural and regional affairs and transport committee remained without answers to 369 questions and the committee looking at the environment, communication and arts needed 465 questions answered.

Peter Veness

September 10, 2010