Question Time AU

General Debate

One Nation

Senate · Tuesday 30 June 2026

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

At a glance

Senator Nick McKim moved to suspend standing orders to make a statement regarding Pauline Hanson's One Nation's decision to deny leave for a bill protecting LGBTIQA+ Australians. McKim argued that One Nation was retaliating after failing to pass their own legislation, which he characterised as harmful to transgender people. Senator Jess Walsh moved that the question be put immediately, effectively opposing the suspension. The motion to suspend standing orders was defeated by 28 votes to 11.

Outcome

The motion to suspend standing orders was not passed, with 28 senators voting against it and 11 voting in favour.

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 One Nation had denied leave for his bill as retaliation for their own failed attempt to introduce legislation he described as harmful to transgender individuals. McKim contended that One Nation's focus on gender issues was driven by political motives rather than genuine concern. McKim asserted that the Greens would continue to support transgender rights and oppose measures he viewed as discriminatory. McKim sought to use the statement to highlight what he described as the negative impact of One Nation's actions on the queer community.

Government response

Jess Walsh (Minister for Early Childhood Education; Minister for Youth) ALP VIC

Walsh moved that the question be put immediately, indicating opposition to suspending the standing orders for the statement. This procedural motion aimed to conclude the debate on the suspension without allowing McKim to proceed with his remarks. The move reflected the government's position against extending the time for this specific statement.

Votes during this debate

Division 20: One Nation Passed 28–11 Division 21: One Nation Not passed 10–28