Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Crimes Amendment (Prohibiting the Strip Searching of Children) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Senate · Tuesday 18 August 2026

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

At a glance

Senator Lidia Thorpe moved the second reading of the bill, which seeks to prohibit the strip searching of children under 18. She argued that the practice is ineffective at detecting contraband and causes significant trauma, particularly for vulnerable groups including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. The senator cited international human rights obligations and previous royal commission recommendations that had not been fully implemented. The debate was adjourned after the senator sought leave to continue her remarks later.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned after Senator Thorpe sought leave to continue her remarks later.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Lidia Thorpe (VIC) (Independent) Ind

Thorpe supported the bill, arguing that strip searching children is a harmful and unnecessary practice that causes severe trauma. Thorpe presented data from Western Australia and New South Wales showing that strip searches have a negligible success rate in detecting dangerous items or contraband. Thorpe contended that the practice violates human rights conventions and fails to meet the duty of care owed to young people in custody. Thorpe emphasized that the bill aligns with international standards and recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody.