Australian politicians have condemned One Nation senators for turning their backs during the Acknowledgement of Country ceremony in the federal parliament on Tuesday.
The four senators from the Pauline Hanson-led party remained seated and faced away from the chamber as the statement of respect was read out, sparking widespread criticism.
Cabinet minister Clare O’Neil described their actions as “disrespectful, rude, and childish,” stating that it was a day to celebrate Australia’s democracy and recommit to working for its citizens.
Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie defended the One Nation senators, citing the importance of expressing different views in a liberal democracy.
She drew comparisons to politicians who walk out of the chamber during morning prayers and those who do not support the monarchy.
However, O’Neil stressed that the senators should have treated all Australians with respect, particularly First Nations people who had been invited to extend a hand of friendship and share their 65,000-year heritage.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese celebrated the tradition as a powerful way to begin the new parliament and reflect on Australia’s history, while Opposition Leader Sussan Ley stated that the ceremony “set the tone” for taking practical action to improve lives and expand opportunities for Indigenous Australians.
The incident has sparked renewed debate about Welcome to Country ceremonies and Acknowledgement of Country proclamations, which have been at the center of a right-wing culture war.
Pauline Hanson has previously claimed that Acknowledgement of Country is “divisive” and “increasingly forced.”
The public is encouraged to learn more about the significance of Acknowledgement of Country and Welcome to Country ceremonies, and to engage in respectful dialogue about their importance in Australian society.