Sydney, Australia – In a move widely condemned by Labor and the Greens, One Nation senators turned their backs on parliament’s acknowledgment of country statements, sparking outrage and accusations of disrespect towards First Nations Australians.
Indigenous Affairs Minister Malarndirri McCarthy termed the stunt “incredibly childish” and “hurtful,” emphasizing that the politics of culture wars and disrespect had been rejected by the Australian people in the May elections.
In a heated exchange, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson defended her party’s actions, stating that the acknowledgments and welcome to country ceremonies made her feel “disenfranchised.”
The Greens leader, Larissa Waters, responded by accusing Hanson of being “entirely blind to her own privilege” and perpetuating racism.
Government Senate leader Penny Wong condemned Hanson’s words, saying she peddled in division and disrespect.
Wong expressed hope that the more supportive approach to the protocol adopted by opposition leader Sussan Ley would set a new tone, emphasizing that “decency and respect cost us nothing, but it goes a long way to building a sense of unity.”
The incident has sparked a wider debate about the acknowledgment of country ceremonies, with some, like former shadow Indigenous affairs minister Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, arguing that they are unnecessary and divisive.
Others, like Wong, believe they are essential for promoting unity and respect.
Australians are urged to contact their local representatives to express their views on the issue.