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Review into the listing of White Australia as a prohibited hate group

THE Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security (PJCIS) has commenced a review of the listing of White Australia as a prohibited hate group under the Criminal Code.

The committee said White Australia is an Australian-based nationalist and racist extremist group. It adopted that name in 2025 and has previously been known as the National Socialist Network and European Australia Movement.

White Australia’s ideology is grounded in racism and the notion of white supremacy, the committee said. White Australia is known for promoting racist and hateful propaganda about Jewish people, Asians, Muslims, Indigenous Australians and other migrant ethnicities, for the purpose of demeaning and inciting hatred against these groups.

The prohibited hate group listing framework enables the Federal Government to list organisations that promote violence or hatred. The listing activates a range of criminal offences under Division 114B of Part 5.3B of the Criminal Code, including offences relating to membership, recruitment and the provision of funds or support for the organisation.

White Australia was listed on May 15, 2026.

Under subsection 114A.8 of the Criminal Code, the PJCIS may review a listing at any time and report its comments and recommendations to both Houses of Parliament.

Chair of the PJCIS, Senator Raff Ciccone, said, “This is the second organisation listed as a prohibited hate group under laws passed by the Australian Parliament earlier this year.

“The Parliament has established a framework to ensure organisations that promote hatred, normalise extremist rhetoric and risk social cohesion are subject to strong legal consequences.

“The committee’s review is an important safeguard. It allows the Parliament and the Australian community to scrutinise the listing and ensure the framework is operating as intended.”

Members of the public are invited to make submissions to the review by July 13, 2026.

A level paying field: Economics Committee releases report on the Australian payments sector

AUSTRALIA's payments system is fundamental to the operation of the national economy -- and Australians have never had more ways to pay.

As a nation of early adopters, Australians have been quick to embrace new payment technologies. However, global technology companies play an increasingly prominent yet opaque role in how Australians access and use payment services.

Moving from cash to card has seen a massive shift within our payments system. On average Australians use a credit or debit card 540 times a year and non-cash payments worth nearly $300 billion are made every business day.

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Economics has today presented its report­—A Level Paying Field—for the inquiry into schemes, digital wallets and innovation in the payments sector.

This inquiry has shown Australians want and deserve to have confidence in a payment system that is simpler, competitive, transparent and delivers a fairer deal.

The inquiry received 48 submissions and heard evidence from key stakeholders at public hearings about the current state of Australia’s payment system.

The committee heard concerns regarding the growing complexity of card-related payment fees and the impact those costs can have on small businesses.

It looked at the market power of major card schemes and the increasing influence of digital wallet providers. It also considered the opportunities presented by account-to-account payment systems, emerging payment technologies and new forms of digital money such as stablecoin.

This report presents 16 recommendations aimed at reducing payment costs for consumers and small businesses, ensuring that savings are passed through to merchants and consumers, and improving oversight of the payments system. The recommendations promote more transparent fee structures, better access to payment infrastructure for new entrants in the sector, and the continued development of alternative payment methods such as account-to-account payments and stablecoins.

Committee Chair, Ed Husic MP said, "Australians deserve a simpler, easier to understand payment system, one that’s open to competition and delivers a fairer deal for small businesses and consumers.

"Strong competition often drives new ways of doing things," he said. "Equally, innovation delivers its greatest benefits when markets remain open, transparent and contestable.

"Our recommendations focus on improving competition in a payments system dominated by big players and where consumer choice has been limited.

"Consumers should have confidence that payment services are secure, affordable and competitive. Small businesses should not be disadvantaged by complexity or a lack of bargaining power."

A full copy of the report is available on the committee’swebsite.

 

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Yarning Competition winners to come to Canberra for presentation event and exhibition launch

THE winners of the 2026 Yarning Competition will visit Canberra next week for a presentation event and the launch of the Yarning Exhibition at Parliament House. ​

The Yarning Competition is about storytelling. It aims to raise awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to provide a platform for secondary school students to connect with, and learn about, the work of the Australian Parliament.​​

Students are invited to share their perspectives and stories – through creative mediums such as visual art, video, photography, essays or audio – by addressing one of four themes: Country and Connection; Identity and Culture; Family and Community; Reconciliation. ​

The judges for the 2026 competition were the Speaker of the House, Milton Dick MP, the Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour MP; the Member for Grey, Tom Venning MP and the Member for Curtin, Kate Chaney MP. Entries were shortlisted by the Parliamentary Service Indigenous Employee Network.​

The winners of the 2026 Yarning competition are:​

  • Year 7/8: Jaide (Kalkadoon Country)​.

  • Year 9/10: Charlotte (Wiradjuri Country)​.

  • Year 11/12: Lyla (Gumbaynggirr Country)​.

The winning artworks can be found at 2026 Winners – Yarning Competition.​

The winners will travel to Canberra for the presentation event at Parliament House on Monday June 29, to be hosted by the Speaker.​

At the event, the Speaker will launch the Yarning Exhibition, in which the three winning artworks will be displayed, and all competition entries will feature. The exhibition will run until February 2027.​

“We had a record number of entries this year, with an exceptionally high calibre of talent, sharing very special stories,” Speaker Milton Dick MP said.​

Event details

Yarning Competition presentation event and exhibition launch​
Monday 29 June 2026, 11.15am to 12.15pm​
Senate side circulation area, Level 1 public area​
Parliament House, Canberra.

 

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Public Works Committee referred proposed works by ANSTO, DEWR and Defence

THE Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works has recently commenced three new inquiries into proposed works by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) and the Department of Defence (Defence) under the Public Works Committee Act 1969.

ANSTO is proposing a replacement of its backup power network with a new, centralised high voltage backup power network at its Lucas Heights site in New South Wales. The project seeks to deliver a new Campus Utilities Building, a new campus backup power system, and associated infrastructure elements. The estimated cost of the proposed works is $30.416 million (excluding GST).

DEWR is proposing a fit-out of its new leased premises at 40–60 London Circuit, Canberra City. The fit-out will provide DEWR and the Department of Education 46,389 m2 of modern office accommodation to consolidate their Canberra-based workforce into a single precinct while supporting long-term operational requirements and strategic objectives. The estimated cost of the proposed works is $110.641 million (excluding GST) at a rate of $2,375 per m2 (excluding GST).

Defence is proposing to deliver facilities and infrastructure at RAAF Base East Sale, Victoria, to support the Future Air Mission Training System. The project includes delivery of working and training accommodation, simulation equipment and Living-In Accommodation in line with the National Defence Strategy 2026. The estimated total cost of the works is $130.8 million (excluding GST)

The committee invites interested individuals and organisations to make submissions by Thursday, August 6 for these referrals. More information is available on the inquiry websites: ANSTO, Lucas Heights, DEWR, London Central, and Defence, Air Mission.

Note: the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works is not involved in the tendering process, awarding of contracts or details of the proposed works. Enquiries on these matters should be directed to the relevant Commonwealth entities.

 

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Treaties Committee recommends ratification of Australia-Uruguay Social Security Treaty

THE Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) has tabled a report recommending ratification of the Agreement on Social Security between Australia and the Oriental Republic of Uruguay.

The agreement enables eligible individuals who have moved between Australia and Uruguay to qualify for social security benefits. It also allows Australians and Uruguayans to continue receiving certain social security payments when they move between the two countries.

In addition, the agreement reduces costs and administrative burden by preventing individuals and businesses from having to pay social security contributions in both countries at the same time.

Committee Chair, Lisa Chesters MP said, “Australia and Uruguay share a strong and cooperative bilateral relationship grounded in mutual respect and common interests. This agreement is an opportunity to deepen our relationship with Uruguay while delivering practical benefits to people who have lived and worked in both countries.

“The committee is satisfied that the costs to Australia will be modest and manageable, and that the agreement is consistent with Australia’s other international social security agreements.”

At the conclusion of the inquiry the committee determined that the agreement is in Australia’s national interest and has recommended that binding treaty action be taken.

The report also includes a minor treaty action relating to the Amendment to the Agreement establishing the Asian Development Bank. This amendment removes the Asian Development Bank’s lending limit, boosting its financial capacity and maximising its developmental impact.

The report can be found on the Committee website, along with further information on the inquiry.

 

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Hearing on community engagement being critical to critical minerals

 

THE House of Representatives Standing Committee on Primary Industries will hold a public hearing in Canberra as part of its inquiry into factors shaping social licence and economic development outcomes for critical minerals projects across Australia.

On Friday, June 26 the committee will hear from the National Farmers’ Federation, Monash University researcher Mr Riasat Noor, the Critical Minerals Consortium and CSIRO, with a focus on community engagement and integrating mining with existing land uses.

CSIRO research noted, "While there is strong public recognition of the essential role critical minerals play in reaching net-zero emissions and the need to increase their supply, many Australians remain concerned about the potential environmental impacts’ of mining. Addressing these concerns requires ‘building trust by ensuring that local communities have genuine opportunities to participate in and influence decision making, and that they are treated fairly with clear pathways to realise meaningful benefits’."

Committee Chair, Meryl Swanson, said, "Social licence is critical to the development of the critical minerals sector. It involves honest communication, building trust, creating tangible and enduring benefits and mitigating costs and negative impacts.

"The committee looks forward to discussing with experts how strong, early and continuous community engagement by project proponents can ensure that critical minerals projects gain and maintain acceptance by host communities."

More information on the inquiry, including the full terms of reference and details on making a submission, can be found on the inquiry website.

Public hearing

Date: Friday, 26 June 2026
Time: 9am – 12pm (AEST)
Location: Committee Room 1R3, Parliament House, Canberra.

A program for the public hearing is available on the inquiry website. A live broadcast of the hearing will also be available on the APH website.

 

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Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters future hearings for 2025 election inquiry

THE Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters has been conducting a review of the 2025 election.

On June 24, the committee agreed to re-invite the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (informally known as the Plymouth Brethren or PBCC), and Advance (previously known as Advance Australia) to give evidence before a hearing of the committee.

This is after both groups declined to appear at previous hearings in November 2025, and March and May 2026.

Given multiple attempts have been made to have these witnesses appear before the committee, the committee has also resolved to issue a summons to compel their attendance if witnesses continue to decline these invitations.

The committee acknowledges that this is an extraordinary step, but one it believes necessary.

Preliminary analysis of committee evidence shows that over 75 published submissions to JSCEM mention the Plymouth Brethren, and note their presence in approximately 80 different suburbs in federal electorates across Australia.

Given the volume of submissions the committee has received, and the level of community concern about their involvement in the electoral process, it is not just in the committee’s interest, but Australia’s interest, to understand the involvement of both of these third parties in the 2025 Federal Election and their influence on the electoral process.

Information on the hearings will be made available on the Committee’sPublic Hearings webpage as they are finalised.

 

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Gain a better understanding of the House of Representatives in an engaging half-day seminar

HOW DOES the House of Representatives work? What is the Australian legislative system? Who are the members?  How do House committees operate?

If you’ve asked yourself these questions or have wanted to gain a better understanding of the House of Representatives, you are invited to attend the How the House Works seminar on Wednesday, July 29.

This half-day seminar is presented by senior officers from the Department of the House of Representatives. It is a development opportunity for professionals wanting a detailed yet practical understanding of the role of the House and its members, the legislative process and the work of House and joint committees.

How the House Works seminar

Date: Wednesday 29 July 2026
Time: 9.15am to 12.45pm
Venue: Parliament House, Canberra or online via Webex
Price: $350 AUD (inc. GST) for online or on-site participation

In-person participants will be able to network with other attendees and ask questions of senior staff from the Department of the House of Representatives during a provided morning tea.

They will also have the opportunity to attend a Q&A session in the public gallery overlooking the House of Representatives chamber.

Tickets are limited so book your spot now.

For assistance with group bookings or other ticketing enquiries, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Find out more

Website: www.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone: (02) 6277 4428

 

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Committee to hear from key national organisations and agencies

THE Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs will be holding a public hearing in Canberra on Friday, June 26 for its inquiry into racism, hate and violence directed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The hearing will bring together a range of national bodies, government agencies, and experts with experience in policy, service delivery and online safety to provide evidence to the committee.

Committee Chair, Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba woman Senator Jana Stewart, said, “This hearing is an opportunity to hear from key national bodies like Reconciliation Australia, alongside the federal agencies responsible for tackling racism.

"The committee is focused on practical action and real accountability. With systemic and institutional racism emerging as major themes, we want to see what these agencies are doing internally to combat it. This is also about examining where trust with First Nations communities has broken down, and how those agencies plan to rebuild it.”

The inquiry is examining the prevalence, impacts and drivers of racism, hate and violence, as well as existing responses and opportunities for reform. Evidence gathered during the hearings will inform the committee’s final report to Parliament.

Witnesses scheduled to appear include Reconciliation Australia, First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group, Department of Social Services, eSafety Commissioner, Attorney-General’s Department, National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Australian Federal Police (AFP), Department of Home Affairs, Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Services Australia, and Department of Education (including the Australian Tertiary Education Commission).

Information on the inquiry, including the terms of reference and the public hearing program, is available on the committee’s website.

Please note the committee and secretariat are unable to provide counselling, advice, or support for individuals. Help is available:

For First Nations people:

  • 13YARN: 13 92 76
  • Brother to Brother: 1800 435 799
  • Yarning SafeNStrong: 1800 959 563.

For all people:

  • Lifeline: Call 13 11 14
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
  • MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
  • Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
  • Headspace: 1800 650 890
  • Suicide Call Back Service:1300 659 467
  • 1800 Respect: 1800 737 732.

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Final public hearing for inquiry into gender equality as a national security and economic security imperative

THE Human Rights Subcommittee of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade will hold a final public hearing for its inquiry into gender equality as a national security and economic security imperative Friday, June 26.

Chair of the Human Rights Subcommittee, Tony Zappia MP, said this final hearing will feature representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to discuss some of the inquiry’s key findings.

Mr Zappia said, "DFAT is the lead agency on Australia’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, and supports gender equality as a central pillar of Australia’s foreign policy through the International Gender Equality Strategy.

‘This hearing will give the subcommittee an opportunity to consider practical avenues to further embed gender equality in regional approaches to security. We hope to discuss how Australia can advocate globally and regionally for gender equality to be centralised as a security imperative.’

Further information, including the full terms of reference, is available on the inquiry webpage.

Public Hearing Details

Date: Friday 26 June 2026
Time: 8am–9am (AEST)
Location: Committee Room 1R4, Parliament House, Canberra

The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live.

 

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Lived experience witnesses, international experts to appear at domestic, family and sexual violence and suicide inquiry hearing

REPRESENTATIVES of those with lived experience of domestic, family and sexual violence (DFSV) will appear at the upcoming public hearing on Friday, 26 June 2026 for the House Social Policy and Legal Affairs Committee’s inquiry into the relationship between DFSV and suicide.

"When considering the frameworks surrounding the intersection between DSFV and suicide, it is critically important to hear the voices of those who have lived through these horrific circumstances," Committee Chair, Louise Miller-Frost MP said.

‘The committee values the opportunity to hear from these witnesses to fully appreciate the impact of systemic issues that are felt by those most in need of support, and will bring focus to the evidence provided so far by experts, governments, and support organisations," Ms Miller-Frost said.

The committee is also scheduled to hear from international experts in DFSV and suicide at the hearing, providing an international comparison with reporting systems in the United Kingdom. Parts of this hearing may be conducted in private and not broadcast.

More information about the inquiry, including the terms of reference and submissions, can be found on the inquiry webpage.

For more information about this committee, visit its website. On the site, people can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. The public can also track the committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right-hand corner of the page.

Public hearing details

Date: Friday, 26 June 2026
Time: 8.30am to 4pm
Location: Committee Room 1R5, Parliament House, Canberra ACT

The hearing program is available on the inquiry website.

Public hearings are broadcast live on the Australian Parliament House Streaming Portal.

Observers are reminded that these hearings will cover material that may be distressing. Please note the committee and secretariat are unable to provide counselling, advice, or support for individuals. If you are in immediate danger, please contact 000. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the services below:

  • Suicide Call Back Service:1300 659 467
  • 1800 Respect: 1800 737 732
  • Lifeline: Call 13 11 14
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
  • MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
  • 13YARN: 13 92 76
  • Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
  • Headspace: 1800 650 890.

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