A defence department official has sparked backlash after proposing that a Senate hearing avoid sharing footage of public servants testifying, citing concerns over potential online harassment and national security risks. Internal emails obtained through freedom of information show the request was discussed with senior government figures and ultimately approved by the department secretary. Critics have condemned the move as an attempt to restrict public access to parliamentary proceedings, raising questions about transparency. The controversy underscores tensions between open governance and efforts to protect witnesses from digital threats.
Official’s controversial September request for Senate hearing footage to not be shared on social media has been heavily criticisedGet our daily political email, free app or daily news podcastThe secretary of the defence department approved a senior official’s controversial idea to tell a Senate hearing that footage of public servants giving evidence should not be shared on social media because it could invite online bullying and raise national security concerns.Emails obtained by Guardian Australia under freedom of information reveal deputy secretary Celia Perkins’ planned request to the parliamentary inquiry was flagged with the offices of deputy prime minister Richard Marles and assistant defence minister Peter Khalil, and received the backing of department secretary Meghan Quinn. Continue reading...
