Jacinta Collins (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Parliamentary Secretary for School Education and Workplace Relations) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Abetz—sorry, Senator Brandis; I apologise, Senator Abetz, because you do not conduct yourself in this way. Senator Brandis does not seem to understand that the nature of the interjections that he is shrieking and his carrying on do him no service at all. You only need to look at the faces of his colleagues when he carries on this way. Fortunately, because of where I sit in the chamber, I do not often see his face and his carry-on, but now as I stand it is pretty obvious that he understands, as does Senator Abetz, that this clearly is a stunt.

I look forward to looking at the merits of this situation. Senator Abetz is obviously excited about a matter. But, if you were serious, you would have consulted us before bringing this on. I understand Senator Brandis and Senator Abetz were all very excited. They trotted into the chamber and it was very obvious that a stunt was coming, and here it is and it is presented in this way. Next time, give notice if you wish to seek leave. It is as clear as that. Give notice if you wish to seek leave. Until you act accordingly, yes, we will oppose a suspension of this character.

I look forward, with an opportunity of time and facts, to clearly assess what has been asserted here. But, for the moment, unfortunately, this opposition has form—very clear form—of coming into this place with inaccuracies and fiction. Until I can see the facts of this matter, I certainly will not be agreeing to completely circumvent the Senate program for the day.