Pro-Palestinian protesters shouted at politicians during question time as they called for a ceasefire in Gaza and accused the country’s leaders of “genocide”.
Bean MP David Smith was interrupted in the House of Representatives on Monday afternoon when he was drowned out by angry chanting.
A group sitting in the House public gallery shouted “Shame, shame” as the Canberra politician questioned Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus about Labor’s new Administrative Review Tribunal – which will review government decisions.
The demonstrators’ calls continued as Mr. Dreyfus tried to respond.
“You support the genocide! » shouted the demonstrators.
Other protesters pointed to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s response to the conflict.
“Albanian, your hands are red. 15,000 children dead! », chanted the crowd.
Bean MP David Smith (pictured) was interrupted during question time by pro-Palestinian protesters
Others called for a “ceasefire now.”
It is estimated that more than 30,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel declared war on the terrorist group Hamas.
The conflict erupted on October 7 when militants crossed from the Gaza Strip into southern Israel, killing more than 1,100 people and taking around 240 hostage.
Some Palestinian supporters have criticized the Australian government for failing to denounce Israel.
Labor’s Mr Dreyfus responded to Mr Smith’s questions about the new administrative review tribunal by highlighting the practice of “stacking” within the Liberal Party.
“As many as 85 former Liberal MPs, defeated Liberal candidates, former Liberal staffers and other close associates of the Liberal Party have been crammed into prestigious jobs without any merit-based selection process,” he told the audience.
“They did it again and again, including on the eve of the last election.
“The decisions of the (Administrative Review Tribunal) have had a life-changing impact on thousands of Australians; from disabled people seeking help through the NDIS to vulnerable families trying to get the right social security benefits.
Pro-Palestinian protesters shouted “shame” at politicians and called for a ceasefire (pictured, a Free Palestine rally outside Parliament in Brisbane earlier this month)
As he continued, protesters were removed from the public gallery by security.
At the end of his response, Mr. Dreyfus joked: “I hope you heard the last part of my answer.”
Green Senator Max Chandler-Mather then applauded the online protesters.
“Solidarity with the Palestine protesters at Question Time today, peacefully fighting for a ceasefire and an end to the genocide in Gaza,” he said.
“Their voices reflect the wishes of millions of people across Australia. History will remember you well.
