COMMITTEES

Senator SHOEBRIDGE (New South Wales) (15:48): I move: That, noting the Joint Statement on Transnational Repression adopted by the 56th session of the United Nation's Human Rights Council, the following matter be referred to the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee for inquiry and report by 31 May 2027: Transnational repression and foreign interference, with particular reference to: (a) the nature, scale and methods of transnational repression activities affecting individuals and communities in Australia; (b) the impact on diaspora communities, democratic engagement and public advocacy of transnational repression; (c) the adequacy of current legislative and institutional frameworks to address transnational repression in Australia; (d) existing and needed protection and support mechanisms for affected individuals and communities including education and community engagement strategies; (e) how to support individuals and targeted communities to effectively respond to transnational repression with both community and government collaboration; (f) international cooperation and global best practice to address transnational repression; (g) recommendations for legislative and policy reforms; and (h) any other related matters.

The PRESIDENT: The question is that business of the Senate No. 2 standing in the name of Senator Shoebridge be agreed to. A division having been called and the bells being rung— Senator O'Sullivan: I seek leave for the vote to be recommitted. It was going to be a 'mickey'.

It was brought to my attention after the bells were rung that our position is to vote on the other side. Can we have another four minutes? Leave granted.

The PRESIDENT: To the whips in the room, I would say this is an absolute indulgence. Please make sure that you know what you're doing and you advise your people accordingly. The question is that business of the Senate No. 2 standing in the name of Senator Shoebridge be agreed to.