Question Time AU

Bill Debate · First Reading

Royal Commissions Legislation Amendment (Protections for Providing Information) Bill 2026; First Reading

Senate · Tuesday 3 March 2026

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

At a glance

The Senate considered the first reading of the Royal Commissions Legislation Amendment (Protections for Providing Information) Bill 2026. The bill aims to protect individuals providing information to the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion and clarify agency authority to produce documents. The legislation was prioritised to ensure information availability for the commission's interim report due in April 2026. The bill was read a first time and approved for consideration during the current sittings.

Outcome

The bill was read a first time and approved for consideration during the 2026 Autumn sittings.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Anthony Chisholm (QLD) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Chisholm moved that the bill proceed without formalities and be read a first time. Chisholm also sought leave to suspend standing orders to allow consideration during the current sittings. Chisholm tabled a statement of reasons justifying the urgency of the legislation. Chisholm explained that the bill protects persons providing information to the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion. Chisholm noted the bill clarifies authority for Commonwealth agencies to produce information despite other laws.