Matter of Public Importance
Senate · Tuesday 3 March 2026
Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia
Senator Duniam moved a matter of public importance concerning the government's handling of individuals linked to ISIS. Duniam argued that the government lacked clarity and accountability, criticising the reliance on self-managed returns as a security risk. He called for legislative changes to close loopholes in the repatriation process. The motion was supported by the required number of senators to proceed.
The motion was supported by the required number of senators and consideration proceeded.
Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.
Opened the debate
Colbeck introduced the motion moved by Senator Duniam regarding the management of individuals associated with ISIS. Colbeck noted that the proposal concerned the need for clarity and accountability in government policy. Colbeck confirmed that sufficient senators supported the consideration of the matter under standing order 75.
Opposition response
Duniam criticised the government for failing to provide answers on national security matters involving individuals from declared terrorist areas. Duniam argued that the current approach allowed private individuals to manage returns without adequate security assessments. Duniam proposed legislation to close loopholes regarding self-managed returns, citing previous government-led repatriations in 2019 and 2022 as examples of proper procedure.