Pauline Hanson is calling for increased police protection this morning amid a surge in threats to her safety. Let’s bring in today’s talkers — Liberal Senator Paul Scarr and our very own Lizzie Pearl. Good morning to you both. Paul, this report quotes one message saying, “your protection won’t protect you forever.” That’s pretty confronting.
Senator Scarr:
It is confronting — and it’s completely unacceptable. I support Pauline Hanson’s call for increased security 100 per cent. We cannot tolerate threats of violence in Australian politics. Every elected member of parliament has the right — along with their staff and their families — to feel safe. I’m sure the Australian Federal Police will be looking at this carefully and making appropriate arrangements, and I fully support that.
Host: She is a polarising figure — would you expect her to change how she operates?
Senator Scarr:
I don’t think that’s the issue. In a democracy, every elected representative has the right to express their views safely and freely — regardless of political party. Pauline Hanson is entitled to that protection.
Lizzie Pearl:
Exactly. There’s no place for political violence in this country. No one should be working under threats like this — whether it’s directed at them personally or their family. We’ve even seen security concerns raised recently, and it’s a reminder that these risks are real. You only have to look overseas to see what can happen — we don’t want that here. People can disagree, but threats of violence are never acceptable.
Host: Absolutely — no place for it, regardless of politics.
Host: Moving on — the Queensland government is under fire for not allowing pubs and clubs to trade freely during the FIFA World Cup. While fans elsewhere could enjoy a drink this morning, Queenslanders were left with coffee instead. Paul — that feels pretty un-Queensland-like.
Senator Scarr:
What’s going on? Queenslanders should be able to head to the pub, put on the scarf, cheer on the Socceroos and share a beer with their mates. I really hope the Queensland authorities reconsider before the next game. You can do that in New South Wales — but not in Queensland. Something’s not right there.
Lizzie Pearl:
And it doesn’t look great, especially with the Olympics coming in 2032. If you can’t trial extended trading during a World Cup, when can you? It’s only for a short window. Though I have to say — it’s quite funny that Queenslanders apparently can’t be trusted with a morning beer, but New South Wales can!
Host:
That’s a big call — I’m not sure we can be trusted that early!
Host: Let’s talk about the result — the Socceroos going down 2–nil to the US. Can we call it a brave effort, Paul?
Senator Scarr:
I think we can. I was really proud of the team — particularly how they lifted in the second half. They’re an inspiring group, bringing together players from all backgrounds to represent Australia. They make us proud. And I’ll give a special mention to Aidan O’Neill for helping the referee with cramp — that’s great sportsmanship.
Host:
We’ll take that — even if the result didn’t go our way.
Host: Lizzie, you’ve been keeping an eye on the action — but also the crowd. Plenty of star power?
Lizzie Pearl:
Absolutely — the Americans know how to put on a show. Even if you’re not watching every second of the match, there’s always something happening. We’ve seen David Beckham, Tom Cruise, Ryan Reynolds and Paris Hilton in the stands — it’s a spectacle.
Host:
Paul, any celebrity spotting from your end?
Senator Scarr:
Only at half-time!
