Question Time AU

Bill Debate · In Committee

Defence Amendment (Parliamentary Joint Committee on Defence) Bill 2025; In Committee

Senate · Monday 2 March 2026

Continued from Thursday 5 February 2026.

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

At a glance

The Senate considered Amendment 1 to the Defence Amendment (Parliamentary Joint Committee on Defence) Bill 2025, moved by Senator Shoebridge. A division was required but could not be taken immediately due to the time. Senator Shoebridge argued against the bill, claiming it would facilitate secret pro-war groupthink and align Australia too closely with US military interests. The proceedings were paused to confirm procedural next steps.

Outcome

The division on Amendment 1 was deferred to a later date because the time exceeded 6.30 pm.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

David Shoebridge (NSW) (Australian Greens) Greens

Shoebridge opposed the bill, arguing it would enable secret deliberations that lack public accountability. Shoebridge claimed the committee would foster groupthink among major parties regarding US-led military engagements and defence procurement. Shoebridge asserted that the legislation prevented independent Australian defence policy and prioritised arms industry interests over national security. Shoebridge maintained that public exposure of these discussions would reveal their controversial nature.