Fraser Anning (Queensland, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate—

(a) encourages the flying of the Australian flag by Australian citizens;

(b) recognises the offence caused to the community when the Australian flag is disrespected; and

(c) calls on the Federal Government to legislate to protect the Australian national flag by:

(i) prohibiting the burning, or otherwise damaging or destroying, an Australian flag, and

(ii) defacing, defiling, mutilating, trampling upon, or otherwise desecrating or dishonouring, an Australian flag.

Anthony Chisholm (Queensland, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Leave not granted.

Anne Ruston (SA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Sue Lines (WA, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Anne Ruston (SA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The coalition government strongly supports the Australian national flag as a symbol of national identity, and encourages all Australians to do likewise. However, we ask that the question on parts (a) and (b) be put separately from the question on part (c). The government believes that the overwhelming majority of Australians deplore the actions of those who desecrate the flag. The government acknowledges that the Constitution guarantees freedom of political communication; however, the government believes there are more appropriate and respectful ways for Australians to express their political views. While there are no penalties regarding the desecration of the Australian national flag under the Flags Act 1953, the criminal law provides a basis for action against persons abusing the flag in certain circumstances, including where a breach of the peace occurs or property is destroyed. The government is satisfied that the community will make its own judgement against those who dishonour the flag in this way.

Sue Lines (WA, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

So that there is less confusion, there are three parts to this motion—(a), (b) and (c). The question is that parts (a) and (b) of motion No. 1161 be agreed to.

Question agreed to.

The question now is that part (c) of motion 1161 standing in the name of Senator Anning be agreed to.

Question negatived.

Government senators interjecting—

I do remind senators that if you are calling a point of order then you must stand. I've called the vote.