Crimes Amendment (Prohibiting the Strip Searching of Children) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Tuesday 18 August 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
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2. Tuesday 18 August 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   Senator Lidia Thorpe moved the second reading of the bill, which seeks to prohibit the strip searching of children under 18. She argued that the practice is ineffective at detecting contraband and causes significant trauma, particularly for vulnerable groups including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. The senator cited international human rights obligations and previous royal commission recommendations that had not been fully implemented. The debate was adjourned after the senator sought leave to continue her remarks later.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned after Senator Thorpe sought leave to continue her remarks later.

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