General Debate
Senate · Tuesday 3 February 2026
Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia
The Senate debated a motion by the Australian Greens to suspend standing orders and consider the government's invitation to Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The Greens argued the visit was immoral and violated international law, while the Liberal and Labor parties opposed the suspension, citing procedural norms and the importance of the relationship with Israel following the Bondi attack. The motion to suspend standing orders was defeated, and the underlying motion was not passed.
The motion to suspend standing orders was defeated 40-11, and the underlying motion was not passed 11-39.
Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.
Opened the debate
Shoebridge argued that inviting President Herzog was disgraceful and inflamed community divisions. Shoebridge cited United Nations findings that Herzog incited genocide and referenced statements Herzog made regarding collective punishment. Shoebridge claimed the government was suppressing dissent and betraying Australia's obligations under the genocide convention. Shoebridge urged the Senate to rescind the invitation to avoid complicity in ongoing violence.
Government response
Chisholm stated the government opposed both the suspension of standing orders and the content of the motion. Chisholm argued the invitation was appropriate following the Bondi attack on the Jewish community. Chisholm noted that other parliamentary avenues existed for debate without disrupting routine business. Chisholm moved that the question be put immediately.
Opposition response
Cash argued the Liberal Party would not support suspending standing orders, describing the motion as a stunt. Cash claimed the Greens were importing protest politics into the Senate rather than engaging in serious debate. Cash highlighted the hypocrisy of opposing the visit shortly after the Bondi attack killed 15 Australians. Cash emphasised that Israel is a democratic partner and strategic security ally.