Liberal MP Garth Hamilton dramatically exited the House of Representatives after uttering an expletive during a ministerial answer, causing uproar among Labor MPs and calls for his formal censure.
Incident During Dixer
Hamilton swore while Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain was responding to a question about a Nine Newspapers report. The report alleged that Angus Taylor had accused authorities of deliberately allowing the devastating 2003 Snowy Mountains bushfires to burn because they were in a wilderness area.
McBain condemned the report, stating: "That is absolutely shameful. I am disgusted and so are the first responders who have come into my office to complain about it." As she spoke, Hamilton said "bullshit," slammed his desk shut, and immediately began walking out of the chamber.
Fallout in the Chamber
Labor MPs shouted and gestured towards the Speaker, Milton Dick, calling attention to Hamilton's departure. Hamilton raised his hand, gave a quick bow to the Speaker, and exited. Independent MP Zali Steggall then called for Hamilton to be "named" under parliamentary rules, which would result in a 24-hour suspension from the chamber.
Speaker Dick stated he did not witness the incident but urged all members to reflect on their behavior, allowing McBain to complete her answer. Earlier, Liberal MP Andrew Wallace had also left the chamber unannounced after making noise.
Context and Implications
The outburst occurred amid heightened tensions over the handling of the 2003 bushfires, which remain a sensitive issue in Australian politics. The incident underscores ongoing partisan divisions and raises questions about parliamentary decorum.
