“Women Have Choice”: Anne Aly Slams Pauline Hanson’s Burqa Stunt
Multiculturalism Minister Anne Aly has strongly criticised One Nation leader Pauline Hanson after Hanson entered the Senate chamber wearing a full black burqa — calling the act “unacceptable” and misrepresentative.
Aly, speaking with SBS News, argued that Hanson’s protest aimed to divide rather than contribute meaningfully to political discourse. She underlined her central point: “the important thing is choice.” SBS Australia
Bodily Autonomy at the Center
Aly emphasised that in Australia, women should have the freedom to decide what they wear. According to her:
“Women should be allowed and afforded the bodily autonomy to wear what she wants to wear, whether that’s a bikini or a burka.” SBS Australia
She made clear that covering is not monolithic — many Muslim women choose a hijab, some choose more covering, and others choose none. SBS Australia
Political Motivations and Division
Aly accused Hanson of exploiting real community concerns — such as housing affordability and the cost of living — for political gain. She described Hanson’s stunt as a deliberate provocation: “preying” on grievances for “blatant political purposes.” SBS Australia
Labeling the burqa stunt “unworthy” of her parliamentary role, Aly left the question of formal consequences to the Senate itself. SBS Australia
Senators Push Back
Hanson’s act sparked furious reactions in the Senate:
- Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi (Muslim) called the move “blatant racism and Islamophobia.” The Guardian+1
- Independent Senator Fatima Payman also spoke out, calling the stunt “disgraceful” and accusing Hanson of disrespecting Muslim Australians. SBS Australia
- Senate President Sue Lines ordered Hanson to leave, referencing a previous ruling that using religious attire as a political prop was disrespectful. SBS Australia
When Hanson refused to remove the burqa, the Senate voted on a suspension motion brought by Labor’s Penny Wong — eventually suspending Hanson.
Broader Backlash
Beyond Aly’s critique, other leaders and representatives voiced alarm:
- Conservative Senator Matt Canavan called the stunt “attention-seeking” and said it “cheapens our Parliament.”
- On the broader social front, Muslim community leaders warned that Hanson’s act fuels intolerance.
