Senate debates

Tuesday, 7 November 2023

Business

Consideration of Legislation

3:37 pm

Photo of Anthony ChisholmAnthony Chisholm (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Assistant Minister for Education) Share this | | Hansard source

I move:

That the provisions of paragraphs (5) to (8) of standing order 111 not apply to the Federal Courts Legislation Amendment (Judicial Immunity) Bill 2023, allowing it to be considered during this period of sittings.

Photo of Jonathon DuniamJonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Environment, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Photo of Sue LinesSue Lines (President) Share this | | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Photo of Jonathon DuniamJonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Environment, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | | Hansard source

Since August, judicial immunity in division 2 of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia has been called into question by a court ruling which found that judges can be personally liable for the way they conduct a case. This has had immediate negative consequences, particularly for Australian families going through the family law courts. The coalition has repeatedly called for the Attorney-General to restore the immunity of division 2 judges so that they can decide cases without fear, favour or the threat of personal liability. We welcome the government's decision to come to the table on this issue.

Question agreed to.