House debates

Tuesday, 16 June 2020

Statements by Members

Asylum Seekers

1:47 pm

Photo of Russell BroadbentRussell Broadbent (Monash, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

Ten years ago next week is the anniversary of the toppling of the democratically elected Kevin Rudd by Julia Gillard. Australia woke up to a new government. So long ago—ten years. Since then, we've had so many prime ministers and administrators, and floods, drought, fire, pestilence and recession. And now, national trauma: physical, social and economic. Then I thought, there could not be asylum seekers still in detention since Rudd-Gillard government? Surely not in this country, that some would call the great 'South Land of the Holy Spirit'? I will ask Sister Jane Keogh, she will know if there are.

Today, many shout 'Black Lives Matter', and injustice is called out through the nations. I am Russell Broadbent, member for Monash, Australia. I may stand here alone, but I say all lives matter. Asylum seekers' lives matter, and their children's lives matter. I say injustice matters, whether it's in the open, hidden or in your face. Even more so when it's in your own backyard. Some anniversary.