Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

Women's Health, Safety and Security

Senate · Tuesday 2 September 2025

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

At a glance

Senator Pauline Hanson moved a motion for the Senate to take note of answers provided by the Minister for Women regarding women's safety and health. Hanson argued that 2013 amendments to the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 created legal ambiguity and threatened women's rights by removing objective biological definitions of sex. She cited a Federal Court case involving Sall Grover to illustrate the dangers of subjective legal interpretations. The motion was agreed to by the Senate.

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

Hanson argued that changes to the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 introduced by the previous government created a legal minefield and threatened rights secured by Australian women. Hanson contended that legal definitions must be objective to ensure citizens can act with certainty within the law. Hanson cited a Federal Court judgment against Sall Grover as evidence of the risks posed by subjective amendments. Hanson stated that One Nation sought to restore biological definitions of women in the legislation to protect women's safety, health and privacy. Hanson criticised other parties for failing to address safety issues in spaces such as sports changing rooms and toilets.