Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

Defence

Senate · Thursday 5 March 2026

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

At a glance

Senator Nick McKim moved that the Senate take note of the Foreign Minister's response regarding Australia's involvement in the war on Iran. McKim argued that the conflict was illegal and that Australia was complicit through the use of Pine Gap and Diego Garcia. He criticised the government for failing to rule out Australian support for the war and for echoing pro-war rhetoric. The debate concluded with McKim calling for an independent foreign policy and an end to AUKUS.

Outcome

The motion was moved by Senator McKim.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Nick McKim (TAS) (Australian Greens) Greens

McKim argued that the war on Iran was illegal and caused significant suffering to civilians. McKim stated that international law tests were not met and that the conflict was driven by lies similar to those used to justify the Iraq invasion. McKim claimed that Pine Gap was being used to relay intelligence and communications for the war effort. McKim also noted that US planes had flown from Diego Garcia to Australia, with the Foreign Minister unable to rule out their use in the conflict.