Anne Aly, the Multicultural Minister, has highlighted the necessity for Australian women to have “bodily autonomy,” advocating for freedom in personal attire choices.

“The reality is, most Muslim women who decide to cover opt for a hijab, and there are many, like myself, who decide not to cover,” she explained. “The crucial aspect is having the choice.”

Aly asserted that women should have the right to decide their attire, whether they prefer a bikini or a burqa, ensuring they have the autonomy over their bodies.

Responding to a surge in One Nation polling, sitting between 15 to 18 per cent, Aly said Hanson “preyed” on “genuine grievances” in the community, whether it be housing affordability or cost of living, for “blatant political purposes”.

While labelling the behaviour “unacceptable” and “unworthy” of office, Aly stopped short of listing consequences, leaving that up to the Senate.

Senators erupt over ‘racist’ behaviour

“This is a racist senator, displaying blatant racism and Islamophobia … Someone should pull her up on that.”

“It is extremely racist and unsafe. And I’d like to reconsider your earlier ruling that it is not appropriate to draw attention to a religion people don’t subscribe to.”

Eventually, the Senate was suspended after another motion by Wong was agreed to.

“This does not belong in Australia and at least give me the opportunity to debate it and let’s have the debate on the floor of parliament, because I do represent a large proportion of Australians out there who want to see the burka banned.”

“You can make a fair and reasonable point about immigration and migration and integration and Pauline has a voice to do that in the Senate but this kind of stunt, it weakens her case and cheapens our Parliament, and most Australians will look away in disgust.”