Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Bill 2025; Second Reading

Neumann supported the bill, linking it to the broader issue of workplace abuse highlighted by the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association campaign. Neumann stated the legislation responds to the Services Australia Security Risk Management Review, specifically recommendation 17, following the stabbing of a Services Australia officer in May 2023. Neumann explained that the scheme allows authorised persons to apply for orders in state, territory, or federal courts to protect workers and workplaces. Neumann noted the definition of personal violence includes non-physical harm such as verbal abuse and intimidation. Neumann emphasised that the bill covers various work settings, including pop-up offices and workers' residences, and ensures courts consider respondents' personal circumstances.

McCormack supported the bill, describing it as vital for protecting public servants and parliamentary staff from increasing hostility and violence. McCormack referenced the Services Australia Security Risk Management Review and the Criminal Code Amendment (Protecting Commonwealth Frontline Workers) Bill 2024 as part of a stronger protective framework. McCormack cited 1,700 serious incidents at Services Australia centres between July 2023 and July 2024 and mentioned recent assaults on Australian Border Force contractors. McCormack argued that the legislation provides necessary uniformity across jurisdictions and protects workers in diverse settings, including defence bases and embassies. McCormack stressed that staff should not have to endure abuse while performing their duties.

Smith supported the bill, arguing that all workers have the right to feel safe, including federal government employees. Smith highlighted the 1,694 serious incidents at Services Australia face-to-face channels between July 2023 and June 2024 and the assault on Australian Border Force contractors in May 2025. Smith explained that the bill enables authorised persons to apply for orders where personal violence has occurred and there is a real risk of recurrence. Smith noted that the scheme includes safeguards for respondents with impaired decision-making and ensures that orders do not prevent access to necessary Commonwealth services or political communication. Smith commended the bill for addressing a legislative gap and providing legal recourse for workers.

Gregg supported the bill, stating it deters violence and harmful behaviour against Commonwealth workers, particularly those in frontline roles. Gregg cited the 1,694 serious incidents at Services Australia and the May 2025 assault on border force contractors as evidence of the need for stronger protections. Gregg explained that the scheme allows authorised persons to apply for orders, addressing privacy concerns and barriers for individual workers. Gregg emphasised that the legislation includes guardrails to ensure respondents can still access essential services and exercise political communication rights. Gregg argued that the bill is a proportionate measure to protect workers' physical and psychosocial safety and maintain the attractiveness of public service roles.