STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr DREYFUS (Isaacs) (13:56): Public confidence in our electoral system is essential. It depends on transparency, accountability and the ability of Australians to participate without interference, intimidation, harassment or abuse. I've faced abuse during elections, including threats of violence.

On occasion there have been death threats against me and other public figures. The 2025 federal election raised serious questions about this type of conduct. The AEC received 550 complaints in relation to voter harassment and intimidation by campaign workers.

The Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters has heard evidence of coordinated disruption at polling booths during the 2025 election, and there have been media reports of aggressive, targeted campaign activities by members of the exclusive Plymouth Brethren Christian Church supporting the Liberal Party. The Liberal Party's own internal review of the 2025 federal election acknowledges this.

There are serious allegations. They must be tested. I hope the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters, chaired by the member for Bennelong, can get to the bottom of this.

This is not about religious belief, nor is it an objection to political participation. Citizens are free to campaign alone or together. What matters is respectful behaviour, transparency and accountability.

The integrity of our elections is important—more important than the interests of any party or organisation—and every member of this parliament should uphold that principle.