Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

AUKUS

Senate · Thursday 24 July 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Senators from the Australian Greens debated the government's response regarding the AUKUS partnership. They criticised the allocation of $1.6 billion to the United States without guarantees of nuclear submarine delivery. The speakers argued that the agreement compromised Australian sovereignty and lacked proper public consultation. They called for a parliamentary inquiry into the deal, citing concerns over cost and nuclear waste disposal. The motion to take note of the answers was agreed to.

Outcome

The question was agreed to.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

David Shoebridge (NSW) (Australian Greens) Greens

Shoebridge argued that the government was providing substantial financial support to the United States despite its foreign policy actions. Shoebridge stated that $1.6 billion had been transferred, including $800 million handed over by Richard Marles, without any mechanism for recovery if submarines were not delivered. Shoebridge contended that the government was prioritising the continuation of AUKUS over criticism of US conduct. Shoebridge highlighted a contradiction between the current government's stance and previous opposition to the Iraq war. Shoebridge maintained that the administration lacked the courage to challenge the US regime while keeping the partnership active.