Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

Freedom of Information

Senate · Tuesday 18 August 2026

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

At a glance

Senators debated the government's handling of freedom of information requests and parliamentary transparency. Senator Lambie criticised the administration for maintaining a culture of secrecy and using legal costs to deter FOI challenges. She also raised concerns about restrictions on contacting the Prime Minister and control over parliamentary friends groups. Senator Pocock attempted to take note of answers from Minister Ayres but was not granted leave to do so.

Outcome

The question 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

Jacqui Lambie (Tasmania) (Jacqui Lambie Network) JLN TAS

Lambie argued that the government had abandoned its previous commitment to disclosure in favour of secrecy. Lambie stated that the Senate crossbench had blocked proposed changes to FOI laws in March 2026. Lambie claimed the government was now intimidating Australians by appealing FOI decisions and imposing cost liabilities on requesters who lose appeals, citing a case involving AUKUS nuclear waste sites. Lambie further alleged that the Prime Minister's office had restricted email contact to a portal and exerted control over nonpartisan parliamentary friends groups by requiring Labor co-chairs.