Senate debates Questions without Notice

Gender and Sexual Orientation


Penny Wong

Penny Wong SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs

2:10 pm

First, I would make the point that, when it comes to these issues, I thought former senator Marise Payne expressed a view that was very sensible, very centrist and, I think, very ethical. She said:

… in public life, we do have to be very careful about the way we express our opinions. Most importantly, we have to exercise sensitivity and respect.

And that is a key word, respect. Our view is that all people are entitled to respect, dignity and the opportunity to participate in society free from discrimination. We are a government that has put women's equality at the heart of everything we do, supported by equal representation in our caucus and around the cabinet table. I would say to you, Senator, I think people do understand what it is you are trying to do—

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