It was established in 2005 under Part 5 of the region's constitution, which specifies that the House of Representatives shall comprise 39 elected members in addition to the President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and the Speaker of the House, chosen outside of it.

All elected members are chosen via Instant-runoff voting.

Each of the 33 constituencies defined under Part 8 of the Constitution elects a single member to the House.

[1][2] Representatives of Bougainville who have been elected to the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea are allowed many of the same privileges as members of the Bougainville House of Representatives; but they may not: introduce motions, vote, or be counted towards a quorum.

However, they are allowed to attend meetings of the House where they take part in debates and other proceedings.