Senate Faces Turmoil Amid Allegations of Coalition Suppressing Women's Voices

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“I want to ask a question to inform the women in my community.” That’s how Labor senator Marielle Smith addressed the Senate during Thursday’s extended Question Time.

However, Smith — who said she was hoping to hear more about the government’s investment in women’s health — couldn’t finish her question over the loud interjections.

Despite Senate President Sue Lines declaring that the upper house was “out of order”, her calls for decorum weren’t heeded.

Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres subsequently stood up to back his party colleague.

“Senator Smith is trying to articulate a position, it is very difficult for her to do that with all the bellowing from the fellas over here”, said Ayres.

Environment Minister Murray Watt stands in front of a blue wall at the National Press Club in Canberra holding the almost 1,500 page Environment Protection Reform Bill.

Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt had a packed schedule on Thursday, addressing the National Press Club to discuss upcoming changes to environmental legislation.

In his speech, Minister Watt highlighted the nearly 1,500-page Environment Protection Reform Bill, signaling the government’s commitment to substantial environmental reforms. The detailed proposal aims to enhance environmental protection and management across the nation.

In an off-microphone interjection, Opposition Senator Dean Smith described her as “M Smith”.

The South Australian senator quickly clarified: “It’s Marielle … that is how you say my name.”

Responding to a remark by Opposition senator Bridget McKenzie regarding the silencing of women, the Senate president responded:

During the session, a heated moment arose when Minister Watt urged members of the Opposition, particularly the male members, to reflect on their conduct. He emphasized the importance of allowing discussions on women’s health issues to proceed without interruption.

Senator Jane Hume, in thick black glasses, holds up a paper chain made up of mintie wrappers.

Liberal Senator James Paterson, who has been serving in federal parliament since 2016, responded to the criticism. At 37, he remarked, “I’m old enough to remember when you [Smith] were the one raising your voice at female senators. A little self-awareness would be beneficial.”

In the midst of the exchanges, Minister Watt addressed Senator McKenzie directly, suggesting she might benefit from considering her own advice amidst the interjections.

Questioning Question Time?

Question Time is typically one hour but Thursday’s chaotic session ran to over three hours, thanks to a motion put by Independent senator David Pocock on Wednesday afternoon.

Pocock is incensed by Labor’s delay in releasing a report into government public sector board appointments, which was first handed to them in August 2023.

Government figures have said the document is subject to cabinet and confidentiality restrictions but it will be released once those are worked through.

Senator David Pocock, in a blue suit and white shirt, leans back into his seat, staring off into the distance.

Independent senator David Pocock is the architect of a motion to extend Senate Question Time. Source: AAP / Lukas Coch

In an act of rebellion, Pocock secured the support of the Coalition, Greens and crossbench to extend Senate Question Time until the report is tabled.

The Albanese government has reportedly threatened to sack Coalition MPs from senior committee positions over the move, which is anticipated to create turmoil for the remainder of the parliamentary year.