One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson’s proposal to restrict foreign terror fighters from entering the country will be examined by a Senate committee after senators backed her push to refer the bill for an inquiry.
The Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee will examine the Bill and call for evidence, run public hearings, and publish a report to recommend whether it should be passed.
It will not, however, have the final say on the bill’s fate, as that decision will ultimately rest with senators.
Speaking in the Senate, Hanson reiterated her intentions behind the bill on Aug. 13, which seeks to strengthen Australia’s ability to prevent the return of individuals who have engaged in terror-related activities overseas.
Under current laws, Australia must provide a right of return to citizens under most circumstances—a requirement Hanson hopes to remove.
“This legislation is based on the principle of keeping Australians safe from people who would do them harm,” she told the Senate.
“We are acting where the Labor government is refusing to act.
“Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has said the law leaves him with no choice but to commit their return. One Nation’s legislation aims to fix the law so that it gives the minister the ability to prevent their return.”
Hanson also rejected claims that the Bill was unconstitutional, saying that suggestion contradicted legal advice One Nation had received.
“We’re very happy for the constitutional validity of One Nation’s bill to be examined, that’s why we are moving this amendment,” Hanson said.
“In the end, only the High Court can determine the matter, but at the very least, the Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee can consider these issues instead of making excuses about letting terrorists into Australia.
“If the law is a problem, then change it. Stop worrying about your precious Muslim votes in Western Sydney.”
Hanson accused the Labor government of putting Australians in danger.
“[ISIS] horrified the world. It enslaved thousands of people. It burned captives alive and killed them,” she said.
“Individuals who left Australia to join this organisation celebrated these acts and actively took part in them.
“Thirteen of them are reported to be held in prison in Baghdad. It is reported they may soon be released from custody and may seek to return to Australia.”
Minister Claims Bill Would be Thrown Out
The bill has faced opposition from Greens and Labor politicians, who have argued it is “unconstitutional.”
“This is simply Senator Hanson seeking to score political points on a particular issue in front of the Australian people at the moment,” he said.
“What this government is about is protecting Australians, not just seeking headlines, which is what Senator Hanson is doing.”
“I’ve spoken to those brave [Syrian] women fighters who fought and defeated ISIS ... what they want is for this country to support a pathway to justice,” he said.
