Iran: Human Rights

Laxale seconded the motion, amplifying the voices of the Iranian-Australian community in Bennelong who face anxiety and trauma due to the situation in Iran. Laxale described how peaceful protest has been criminalised and how families are cut off from loved ones due to communication blackouts and surveillance. Laxale outlined the government's tough stance, including sanctions on over 200 entities and the expulsion of the Iranian ambassador, affirming that Australia stands with the Iranian people.

Violi backed the motion but faulted the government for postponing the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist group until November 2025, after attacks on Australian soil. Violi referenced reports of more than 36,500 deaths in Iran and honoured former member Keith Wolahan for his enduring support of the Iranian community. Violi contended that the government ought to have moved sooner, heeding alerts from the coalition and security specialists, and asked if earlier steps might have stopped recent attacks.

Garland expressed solidarity with the Iranian community in Chisholm, acknowledging the trauma carried by diaspora members. Garland detailed the government's actions, including bolstering the autonomous sanctions framework, expelling the Iranian ambassador, and co-sponsoring a UN Human Rights Council resolution. Garland highlighted recent targeted financial sanctions imposed in coordination with the UK and EU, emphasising the government's commitment to ending the killing of protesters and arbitrary arrests.

Wilson supported the motion, linking solidarity with Iranians to opposition to Islamic extremism and oppression. Wilson criticised the government for waiting until synagogue attacks to acknowledge the IRGC as a threat, noting that the coalition had sought to list the group earlier. Wilson highlighted the IRGC's connection to illegal tobacco trade and state-sponsored terrorism, and called out a perceived double standard in community responses to conflicts in Gaza versus Iran.

Claydon described the situation in Iran as a sustained assault on human rights, citing violence, mass arrests, and torture since the death of Mahsa Amini. Claydon outlined Australia's diplomatic and sanctions responses, including the expulsion of the Iranian ambassador following revelations of planned antisemitic attacks on Australian soil. Claydon shared personal accounts from the local Iranian community and affirmed Australia's support for the women and protesters in Iran.

Rebello supported the motion but expressed frustration that government action had come too late, arguing that the coalition had urged stronger measures for years. Rebello stated that the government's response was reactive rather than proactive, delaying decisive action against the IRGC and human rights abuses. Rebello emphasised the impact of Iran's malign influence on Australia's national security and economic interests, calling for earlier and more robust leadership.

Gregg commended the bravery of the Iranian people and condemned the regime's use of lethal force and telecommunications blackouts. Gregg detailed the government's sanctions on over 200 entities and the recent imposition of further financial sanctions in coordination with international partners. Gregg acknowledged the fear within the Iranian-Australian community due to IRGC intimidation and affirmed Australia's ongoing support for freedom and human rights in Iran.

Haines stood in solidarity with Iranians, citing credible evidence of thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of detentions since December. Haines highlighted eyewitness accounts of security forces using lethal force and the regime's refusal to provide information on detainees. Haines welcomed the expansion of sanctions and urged the government to continue diplomatic efforts with international partners to promote accountability for human rights violations.