Pauline Hanson’s Burka Protest Shuts Down Australian Senate

Australian Senator Pauline Hanson has again halted parliamentary proceedings with a controversial political stunt. On November 24, 2025, the One Nation leader entered the Senate chamber wearing a full burka. The act immediately suspended debate and drew condemnation from across the political spectrum.Hanson defended her actions by citing national security and women’s rights. She claimed the garment represents a threat and that many women are forced to wear it. Her protest mirrored a similar 2017 demonstration, reigniting a fierce national debate.

Widespread Condemnation from All Parties

The reaction from fellow senators was swift and severe. Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi labeled the act “racist.” Independent Senator Fatima Payman, a Muslim, called it deeply disrespectful to her faith. Labor Senate leader Penny Wong moved to suspend Hanson for the remainder of the day’s sitting.According to ABC News, Senate President Sue Lines confirmed Hanson was spoken to after the incident. The suspension lasted over an hour, effectively shutting down legislative work. Senate rules allow for longer suspensions for repeat offenses.Even political figures who often align with Hanson’s views expressed disapproval. Nationals Senator Matt Canavan called the stunt “debased” and accused Hanson of ridiculing Muslim Australians. The unified response highlighted the breach of parliamentary decorum.

Community Impact and Safety Concerns

Beyond the political fallout, community leaders voiced serious concerns. The government’s special envoy on Islamophobia, Aftab Malik, issued a stark warning. He stated such actions deepen safety risks for Australian Muslim women who choose to wear religious coverings.Malik emphasized that all women should be free to choose their attire. He noted that an estimated 250 women in Australia wear the burka. Yet, they face disproportionate levels of harassment and violence.Many advocates see Hanson’s protest as politically motivated and dangerous. They argue it stigmatizes a small, visible minority. The stunt is seen as potentially inciting further division and hostility.

The Political Motives Behind the Stunt

Hanson’s protest was linked to her failed attempt to introduce a bill to ban the burka. The Senate had previously blocked her from introducing the private member’s bill. Hanson condemned this decision as hypocritical and an suppression of free debate.She told reporters that she represents a significant portion of Australians who support a ban. However, she provided no evidence to support her national security claims. When pressed, she suggested journalists contact the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.The incident also sparked discussion about the future of far-right politics in Australia. Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce, who has hinted at a move to One Nation, defended Hanson’s right to protest. But he refused to comment on whether the stunt itself was offensive.

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The repeated use of the burka as a political prop has failed to advance any substantive policy debate. Instead, it highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding multiculturalism and religious freedom in Australia. The Senate’s firm response demonstrates a clear limit to such divisive tactics within the nation’s highest democratic institution.

Thought you’d like to know

Why was Pauline Hanson suspended from the Senate?

Hanson was suspended for wearing a burka in the chamber. The Senate President and a majority of senators deemed the act a disrespectful breach of parliamentary decorum that disrupted proceedings.

How many women in Australia wear a burka?

Official estimates suggest approximately 250 women in Australia wear the burka. This is a very small fraction of the country’s Muslim population and the general public.

Has Pauline Hanson done this before?

Yes, Senator Hanson performed an identical stunt in 2017. She entered the Senate wearing a burka to protest against the garment and argue for its ban, citing similar reasons.

What was the political reaction to the protest?

The reaction was overwhelmingly negative. Condemnation came from Labor, the Greens, independents, and even members of the Coalition who typically share some of Hanson’s political views.

What are the community concerns about this stunt?

Community leaders and advocates warn that such acts increase the risk of harassment and violence against Muslim women. They argue it unfairly stigmatizes a religious minority and fosters social division.