Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the Senate for passing the amendment to this motion that has just been passed. This is an important amendment, because it makes clear that this Senate condemns all forms of extremism, allows for a unifying motion to be put, I trust, in this place, in support of all Australians, and the respect that all Australians ought be to be shown. Our strength and resilience as a nation comes from our unity as Australians, regardless of our faith, cultural or other backgrounds or positions. In this place we often see motions bowled up for wedge purposes that conflate different issues and draw together different points. What is important is that on issues like this we try as hard as possible to speak clearly with one voice. The amended motion provides the opportunity for us to condemn extremism and to show our respect and support for all Australians.