Senate Summary for 22/07/2025

Senate Proceedings Overview – July 22, 2025

• The Senate convened at 10:30 AM, led by the Hon. Stephen Gageler AC and the Hon. Michelle Gordon AC (Page 1).
• The Deputy announced the opening of the 48th Parliament, outlining the process for swearing in members and electing key positions (Page 1).
• Senators elected on May 3, 2025, took their oaths, with notable members introduced including Tony Sheldon, Paul Scarr, and Marielle Smith (Page 1).

Election of Senate President

• Senator Penny Wong nominated Senator Sue Lines for Senate President. Following nominations from various senators, Senator Lines was elected with 55 votes against Senator Allman-Payne’s 12 votes (Pages 2-3).
• Newly elected President Lines emphasized her commitment to an impartial and respectful Senate environment and reflected on her past achievements (Page 3).
• Senators across party lines, including Wong, Cash, and Waters, congratulated President Lines, underlining her dedication to inclusivity (Page 4).

Governor-General’s Opening Speech

• The Governor-General’s speech recognized Indigenous land custodians and outlined government priorities such as economic growth and cost-of-living assistance (Page 5).
• Initiatives to relieve cost-of-living pressures included proposed tax cuts and enhanced Medicare benefits (Page 5).
• Plans for legislative objectives focused on resilience, renewable energy commitments, and strengthening international relations (Page 5).

Senate Decorum

• President Lines raised concerns about decorum following inappropriate behavior during the Governor-General’s address, striving for improved representation in the Senate’s conduct (Page 12).

Legislative Documentation

• The day concluded with the tabling of various documents, including ministerial lists highlighting responsibilities in government and opposition (Pages 15-18).

Notable Speeches from Senators

• Mehreen Faruqi: Discussed education, anti-racism, climate adaptation, international aid, animal welfare, and support for a republic (Pages 1-2).
• Sarah Hanson-Young: Addressed roles concerning Environment and Water, and Arts and Communications (Page 2).
• Nick McKim: Focused on Economic Justice, Forests, and LGBTIQA+ representation (Page 2).
• Penny Allman-Payne: Covered Social Services, Education, services for older people, regional development, and sports (Page 2).
• Peter Whish-Wilson: Spoke about Agriculture, Science, Trade, Tourism, Healthy Oceans, and Waste Management (Page 2).
• Jordon Steele-John: Addressed Health and Mental Health, Disability Inclusion and NDIS, and Youth issues (Page 3).
• Elizabeth Watson-Brown: Highlighted Transport, Infrastructure, Sustainable Cities, and Veterans Affairs (Page 3).
• Barbara Pocock: Discussed Housing, Finance, Workplace Relations, and Public Sector issues (Page 3).
• David Shoebridge: Covered Foreign Affairs, Nuclear Disarmament, Defence, Veterans Affairs, Home Affairs, and Digital Rights (Page 3).
• Steph Hodgins-May: Focused on Early Childhood Education, Democracy, Resources, and Climate Change (Page 3).

Election of Deputy President

• Senator Brockman was elected as Deputy President and Chair of Committees, with praise from Senators Wong and Cash (Pages 20-21).

Motion Proposals

• Senator Gallagher proposed motions regarding Senate scheduling, alongside petitions and urgent issues raised by multiple senators (Page 21 onward).
• Senator Shoebridge tabled a petition from over 3,000 health professionals calling for government action in Gaza amidst the humanitarian crisis (Page 21).

Tributes

• Senator Farrell led tributes for Pope Francis, noting his profound impact (Pages 32-34).
• Senators Cash and Polley reflected on his legacy concerning global peace and social justice (Pages 34-36).
• Senator Shoebridge emphasized Pope Francis’s support for Palestinians, while Senator Gallagher discussed parliamentary business and meeting dates (Pages 37-39).

Ongoing Discussions

• The proceedings concluded with motions addressing various urgent governmental actions, showcasing continued engagement in Australian politics (Pages 39 onward).
• Senators expressed condolences, proposed actions, and delineated bills, highlighting governance efforts and community representation.