Penny Wright (SA, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

The treatment, incarceration and trials of David Hicks are a shameful period in Australia's history. David Hicks has consistently made statements about his treatment, including abuse and drugging against his will. On the weekend, more revelations became evident and the statements have been backed up by evidence from a prominent attorney, independent investigations and previously secret reports. This evidence will continue to come out.

David Hicks has never had the opportunity to have the allegations against him heard in a properly constituted court. There have been inquiries in the US but no inquiries in Australia. The Greens have consistently called for a full independent inquiry into the treatment and incarceration of David Hicks and the role of the Australian government as it stood by and allowed it to happen. That has not occurred, and it is for that reason that I am seeking to refer this matter to a Senate inquiry.