Bill Debate · In Committee
Senate · Thursday 17 September 2026
Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia
The Senate considered amendments to the bill during committee stage. The government opposed an amendment that would restrict investigating officers to Defence members, arguing it would hinder investigations. Another amendment to remove ministerial oversight powers was also opposed. A third amendment making ministerial directions subject to disallowance was supported by the government and passed. The bill was subsequently reported and adopted.
The bill, as amended, was agreed to, reported, and the report was adopted.
Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.
Opened the debate
Smith moved an opposition amendment to oppose Schedule 5, item 65. This amendment sought to confine the selection of investigating officers under the act to Defence personnel, except in matters concerning relevant sexual misconduct. The proposal aimed to restrict the use of non-Defence individuals, such as Australian Federal Police officers, in these roles.
Government response
McAllister stated the government opposed the amendment, arguing it would significantly impact the capacity to designate people outside Defence as investigating officers. McAllister noted this restriction would affect all types of investigations, including those into sexual violence. McAllister also opposed a separate amendment that would remove ministerial oversight powers over the Director of Military Prosecutions.
Collins moved an amendment to classify ministerial directions and guidelines as legislative instruments. This change would subject such directions to disallowance procedures. The government supported this amendment, and it was agreed to. Collins subsequently withdrew other opposition amendments.