Senate Summary for 24/11/2025

The report from the Senate proceedings on 24 November 2025 highlights several key discussions and outcomes.

Document Tablings

• The Clerk acknowledged the tabling of documents in the Journals of the Senate as per statutory requirements (Page 1).

Defence Amendment Bill Withdrawal

• Senator Anthony Chisholm moved to withdraw the Defence Amendment (Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal) Bill 2025 from consideration, leading to significant debate (Page 2).
• Senator Bridget McKenzie criticized the government, specifically Minister Keogh, for their handling of the bill, claiming it disrespected the veterans’ community ahead of Remembrance Day (Page 2).
• Senator David Pocock expressed relief at the bill’s withdrawal, citing concerns over threats to veterans’ rights, leading to broader discussions about the recognition of acts of heroism (Page 3).

Social Security and Other Legislation Amendment

• The debate shifted to the Social Security and Other Legislation Amendment Bill, particularly focusing on Schedule 5, which empowers police to cancel social security payments for individuals with outstanding arrest warrants (Page 8).
• Several senators raised concerns over the implications for individuals’ rights, particularly those of First Nations communities (Pages 11-14).
• Senator Katy Gallagher defended the bill, arguing it addressed serious offences and emphasizing the consideration of individual circumstances in decision-making (Pages 22, 24).

Trust Issues with Centrelink

• Senator Lidia Thorpe highlighted trust issues regarding Centrelink services among Aboriginal women and called for clearer definitions of “threat” in legislative measures (Page 31).
• Gallagher responded by clarifying that the authority to determine threats lies with the Minister for Home Affairs, leading to discussions about decision-making processes and potential biases (Page 31).

Environmental and Climate Policies

• Senator COX raised concerns regarding the EPBC Act, stating the urgency for reforms while Minister WATT emphasized the critical need for updates to protect the environment effectively (Page 50-51).
• Disagreements arose over the government’s approach to energy and climate policy, with Senators Babet and Canavan criticizing current measures, while Gallagher and Ayres defended renewable energy initiatives (Pages 37-49).

Housing Crisis Discussions

• The housing crisis was a focal point, with Senator McKim calling attention to the role of investor lending and criticizing tax breaks for property investors (Pages 77-78).
• Senator Bragg countered with claims that government initiatives were inadequate and pointed to supply issues contributing to the crisis (Page 77).
• A call to action for more robust housing measures was made by Senator Pocock, advocating for improved accessibility for young Australians (Page 80-81).

Labor Rights and Treatment of Workers

• Senator Shoebridge expressed concerns over labor practices during Black Friday sales, particularly regarding Amazon’s treatment of workers (Pages 101-102).

International Relations

• Senator Pocock raised issues regarding Australia’s treatment of non-citizens under the AUKUS arrangement, advocating for transparency in these international agreements (Page 103).

Conclusion of Discussions

• The debate encompassed multiple bills related to various sectors, including environmental regulations and consumer protections (Pages 96-102).
• As the session ended, Senator Grogan reflected on the challenges and achievements of the Labor government, addressing ongoing critical issues in education, housing, and social justice (Pages 99-100).

The proceedings reflect a complex interplay of political ideals regarding veterans’ rights, social security policies, environmental protections, housing affordability, and labor rights, showcasing the diverse priorities and disagreements among legislative members.