Australian National Flag

Repacholi expressed strong disapproval of flag burning, describing it as disrespectful to soldiers and grieving families. However, he argued that the government’s approach balanced free speech with public order, noting that existing property and criminal laws already addressed violent or disorderly conduct. Repacholi stated that waving terrorist flags could constitute support for terrorism under the Commonwealth Criminal Code, which was already an offence.

Conaghan supported the motion, arguing that the 70-year-old Flags Act needed upgrading to outlaw flag burning. Conaghan described the act as treacherous and called for jail sentences for citizens and visa revocations for non-citizens involved in such acts. Conaghan asserted that tolerance had gone too far and that the government needed to legislate immediately to protect national values.

Ambihaipahar argued that the flag represented unity and belonging, particularly in diverse communities like Barton. Ambihaipahar maintained that freedom of expression, even when offensive, was a cornerstone of democracy and that punishing symbolic acts diminished rather than strengthened causes. Ambihaipahar noted that existing state and federal laws already covered property damage and terrorist association, making new legislation unnecessary.

Willcox supported the motion, describing flag desecration as a disgraceful criminal act that dishonoured service members. Willcox argued that the government was too afraid to be proud of the flag and called for harsh penalties, including imprisonment and deportation for non-citizens. Willcox claimed that burning the flag fuelled hate and incited future attacks, necessitating strong legislative protection.

French opposed the motion, characterising it as a political stunt that offered no legislative substance. French argued that the flag did not need criminal protection from offensive acts, as existing laws already handled property damage and public order issues. French emphasised that democracy required tolerating peaceful dissent and that criminalising lawful expression risked undermining fundamental freedoms.

Boyce supported the motion, citing international examples where flag desecration was criminalised, including in Europe, Asia, and South America. Boyce referenced polling showing 71 per cent of Australians believed the flag united the nation and 77 per cent were proud of it. Boyce called on the government to show leadership by criminalising flag burning to honour veterans and respect national symbols.