Criminal Code Amendment (Genocide, Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes) Bill 2024

Stage by Stage

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

1. Wednesday 26 March 2025 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated a private senator's bill to remove the Attorney-General's consent requirement for prosecuting genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. Supporters argued the current 'fiat' allows political interference and prevents accountability for historical and international atrocities, while opponents claimed removing the safeguard would expose courts to political abuse and harm national security interests. The Greens and Independent Lidia Thorpe supported the legislation, whereas the Coalition opposed it. The bill was defeated in a division.

   Outcome: The bill was not passed, with a division result of 14 votes against and 24 votes for.

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