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

on indulgence—Mr Speaker, on behalf of the government, we certainly support your actions. We condemn what occurred at Parliament House today, and we declare that those responsible should feel the full force of the law. Peaceful protest has an important place in our society, but this was not a peaceful protest. These actions have done absolutely nothing to advance any cause. Indeed, they have hurt the cause that those engaged in this reckless activity believe they are advancing.

As members are aware, the security of Parliament House is, of course, the responsibility of the Presiding Officers and the Department of Parliamentary Services. When I was made aware of what was unfolding I spoke to our Attorney-General, who spoke to Commissioner Kershaw. I am advised, subsequently, that four arrests have been made. They should face the full force of the law. The Presiding Officers, of course, as you've just said, Speaker, have requested an investigation and review, which will now take place, and the government certainly welcomes such measures. I'm sure that you will keep members and senators updated and take any and all actions required to safeguard our nation's parliament.

This is the seat of our democracy. It is not just an institution made up of walls and the beautiful architecture that we have here. It is symbolic of who we are as a people. Indeed, it was designed so that the representatives are below where the people can go. We don't want any unnecessary restrictions—of course people should be able to come and watch their parliament function in real time—but activities such as those which were engaged in this morning undermine that and undermine our democracy.

See this speech in context