Senate Summary for 20/01/2026

The Senate session on January 20, 2026, featured various significant discussions and outcomes, particularly around addressing antisemitism and proposed reforms in gun laws following the Bondi Beach attack on December 14, 2025, which resulted in the tragic deaths of fifteen individuals.

Key Points

• Opening Proceedings: The session was presided over by Senator Sue Lines and included the tabling of necessary documents by The Clerk as part of the requisite Senate formalities (Page 1).
• Questions on Antisemitism: A major focus of the session was the increase in antisemitic incidents post-Bondi attack. Senator Michaelia Cash questioned Senator Penny Wong about the absence of a government apology to the Jewish community, leading to a discussion on the government’s commitment to combating antisemitism. Wong defended the government’s actions, citing condolences offered by the Prime Minister and the establishment of a Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion (Pages 1-3).
• Reforms and Legislative Proposals: The Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism (Firearms and Customs Laws) Bill 2026 was introduced, aimed at increasing firearms controls and enhancing background checks (Pages 3-10). Opposition senators voiced concerns that the bill disproportionately affected law-abiding gun owners and criticized the expedited legislative process without adequate public consultation (Pages 10-11).
• Debate on Gun Laws: Senators from the opposition, including Senator Susan McDonald and Senator James McGrath, criticized the proposals, arguing they misattributed gun ownership to violence and rushed through critical legislative changes without addressing illegal firearms (Pages 27-32). In response, Senator Dorinda Cox and others highlighted the need for comprehensive reform to prevent escalation in violence, connecting firearm ownership to incidents of hate and domestic violence (Pages 28-30).
• Community Support Discussions: Senator Pocock raised inquiries about funding for Jewish institutions post-attack, with Wong affirming the government’s commitment to enhancing security and resources for affected communities (Pages 12-13).
• Other Legislative Matters: Further discussions included climate policy and emergency management, reflecting considerations about natural disasters exacerbated by climate change (Pages 13-14).
• Criminal and Migration Laws Bill: A related piece of legislation, the Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism (Criminal and Migration Laws) Bill 2026, was discussed extensively. Supporters like Senator Paul Scarr emphasized the necessity of the bill in addressing antisemitism, while opponents criticized the rapid approval process and potential infringement on civil liberties (Pages 71-88).
• Amendments and Voting: Several amendments were proposed, focusing on preserving freedoms and regulating hate groups, with most being rejected (Pages 87-94). The original bill progressed with significant majority support from the government, despite notable opposition (Pages 92-94).

The session highlighted a complex interplay between security measures against extremist acts and the safeguarding of civil liberties, culminating in substantial divisions among senators regarding the best approach to tackle the rise in hate-related violence while ensuring the rights of all citizens.