Part 4/8:
Pauline Hanson and One Nation’s Controversial Stance
The Right-wing party One Nation, led by Pauline Hanson, played a pivotal role in stirring tensions. Hanson defended her party's decision to turn their backs during the Welcome to Country, claiming it was a protest against what she called a "disrespectful" practice. She argued that such acts are a form of protest and reflect her view that these ceremonies exclude non-Indigenous Australians.
Hanson stated: "Whether it is for attention or for clickbaits, whether it is to cause offense, whether it is to stoke division, these senators have made a deliberate decision to disrespect First Nations Australians."
Her stance drew sharp criticism from other Senators who viewed her actions as divisive.