Question Time AU

General Debate

Universal Periodic Review

Senate · Wednesday 1 July 2026

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

At a glance

Senator Shoebridge moved a motion to give precedence to a matter concerning the UN Universal Periodic Review, arguing that the government's rejection of 204 recommendations was urgent and concerning. Shoebridge highlighted the lack of a human rights act and the continued incarceration of young First Nations children as key issues requiring immediate attention. Senator Gallagher moved that the question be put immediately, effectively ending the debate without a vote on the substantive motion. The motion was not passed due to the procedural intervention.

Outcome

The motion was not passed after Senator Gallagher moved that the question be put, which was agreed to.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

David Shoebridge (NSW) (Australian Greens) Greens

Shoebridge argued that the government's decision to reject 204 of the 332 recommendations from the UN Universal Periodic Review was a significant failure. Shoebridge stated that the absence of a federal human rights act was a deliberate choice by the government, despite bipartisan support from the Human Rights Joint Committee. Shoebridge emphasised the urgency of addressing the high rate of First Nations children in detention, particularly in the Northern Territory. Shoebridge contended that the government lacked the principle to oppose policies that criminalise young children and to enact protective legislation.

Votes during this debate

Division 12: Universal Periodic Review Not passed 11–30