Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Lobbying (Improving Government Honesty and Trust) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Senate · Thursday 4 September 2025

Continued from Wednesday 12 February 2025.

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

At a glance

Senator David Pocock moved the second reading of the bill, arguing that current federal lobbying rules are weak and lack transparency, particularly regarding in-house lobbyists and sponsored passes. The government, represented by Senators Lisa Darmanin, Michelle Ananda-Rajah, and Karen Grogan, opposed the bill, stating that the existing Lobbying Code of Conduct and broader integrity reforms, including the National Anti-Corruption Commission, provide sufficient oversight. Senators Steph Hodgins-May and Fatima Payman supported the bill, citing concerns about corporate influence, the revolving door between government and industry, and a lack of public trust. The debate highlighted differing views on the necessity of expanding lobbying registration to include in-house staff and publishing ministerial diaries.

Outcome

The bill was debated but the final vote result is not stated in the provided transcript.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

David Pocock (ACT) (Independent) Ind

Pocock argued that federal lobbying regulations are inadequate, citing a low transparency score from Transparency International Australia. Pocock proposed expanding the definition of lobbyists to include in-house staff and industry associations, requiring quarterly reporting, publishing ministerial diaries, and imposing a three-year cooling-off period for former ministers. Pocock also launched a parliamentary pass register to increase transparency regarding sponsored building access.

Government response

Lisa Darmanin (Attorney-General's Department) ALP VIC

Darmanin stated the government does not support the bill, asserting that the existing Lobbying Code of Conduct, introduced by a previous Labor government, strikes the right balance. Darmanin highlighted recent integrity reforms, including the establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Commission and improvements to the freedom of information system, as evidence of the government's commitment to transparency. Darmanin argued that sponsored pass access is managed by Presiding Officers, not the executive government.