Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

I'm asked about transparency. Senator Reynolds said this that evening:

… Senators Wong, Gallagher and I had a very respectful discussion during the dinner break, and they've assured me they were not involved in that matter becoming public. I accept their assurance. Thank you.

Clearly, at the time, Senator Gallagher had a clear discussion with Senator Reynolds and told Senator Reynolds exactly what she knew. You can't be clearer.

Compare that with the lack of transparency opposite, with the Gaetjens inquiry. The former PM could have asked his staff at any time what they knew; instead he asked his former chief of staff and then secretary. The review was suspended twice. On 25 May 2021, Gaetjens told estimates his report would be completed 'as soon as possible' and that he thought it would be 'weeks, not days—certainly not months'. Three months passed before the review was suspended. The failure to release any findings shows the inquiry was never intended to shine any light. The government failed to answer 57 questions on notice from Senate estimates dating back to 22 March 2021. This parliament has open to it, of course, to call for documents— (Time expired)

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