Pauline Hanson’s Burka Protest Sparks Outcry in Australian Senate

Senator Pauline Hanson caused an uproar in the Australian Senate. She entered the chamber wearing a full burka. This was a protest against her blocked bill to ban face coverings.

The incident occurred in November 2025. It immediately halted parliamentary proceedings. The stunt drew swift condemnation from senators across the political spectrum.

Senate Chamber Erupts in Condemnation

Senator Hanson refused to remove the garment. This forced a temporary suspension of the session. According to BBC and The Guardian, this was not her first such protest.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong led the criticism. She declared Hanson’s actions disrespectful. Wong moved to suspend Hanson from the Senate for her refusal to comply.

Other senators voiced their outrage. Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi called the act blatant racism. Independent Senator Fatima Payman labeled the stunt disgraceful.

Long History of Controversial Stunts

Hanson has a record of provocative actions. She first wore a burka in parliament in 2017. Her political career has been marked by anti-immigration rhetoric.

In her 2016 maiden speech, she warned Australia was being swamped by Muslims. This echoed her 1996 comments about being swamped by Asians. These statements have consistently drawn criticism.

On social media, Hanson defended her latest protest. She posted that if they did not want her wearing it, they should ban the burka. Her supporters saw it as a stand for Australian values.

The Pauline Hanson burka protest has reignited crucial debates about religious freedom and political conduct. It highlights the ongoing tension between protest and respect in Australia’s democracy.

Thought you’d like to know

Why did Pauline Hanson wear a burka in the Senate?

She wore it as a political protest. Her bill to ban face coverings had just been blocked. Hanson stated she wanted to demonstrate why such a ban was necessary.

How did other politicians react?

The response was overwhelmingly negative. Politicians from multiple parties condemned the stunt. Many called it racist and disrespectful to Muslim Australians.

Has she done this before?

Yes, this was her second such protest. She first wore a burka in parliament in 2017. Both incidents were part of her campaign to ban the garment.

What was the immediate consequence?

Proceedings were temporarily halted. Foreign Minister Penny Wong moved to suspend Hanson from the Senate. The incident dominated Australian political news.

What is Hanson’s history with such controversies?

She has repeatedly made anti-immigration statements. Her 2016 speech warned about being swamped by Muslims. These comments have drawn consistent criticism throughout her career.