Senator Roberts expressed the importance of capturing all necessary information for Australians to see regarding the terms of reference for a Royal Commission into the government’s pandemic response. The Australian Senate passed a motion on October 19th to establish these terms of reference after Nationalist One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts pushed for transparency. The terms of reference define the scope of the inquiry and what information will be sought from submissions and witnesses. Senator Roberts clarified that the purpose of the inquiry is not to pass judgement on the COVID response but to gather submissions from stakeholders to ensure informed terms of reference for a future royal commission. The terms of reference will allow all affected stakeholders to be heard, including the deliberations of National Cabinet, advice from health bureaucrats, and real data on COVID-19 deaths.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese previously announced an inquiry into the federal government’s handling of the pandemic but did not pursue a royal commission. The inquiry will review key health measures, medical supplies, public health messaging, support for those impacted by COVID-19 and lockdowns, financial support, and support for industry and business. However, the inquiry will not examine actions taken by state and territory governments or international programs. The terms of reference drafted by One Nation include the pandemic response by Australian states and territories, an inquiry into COVID-19 vaccination data, frameworks governing health departments, and the role of the media in the pandemic response. Senator Roberts emphasized the need for an inquiry to assess the risk to human life at each stage of the response and compare it to the benefits achieved from the Commonwealth response.
Senator Pauline Hanson also raised concerns about the vaccine mandates and the removal of ivermectin as a prescribed treatment. She questioned the impact of school closures and border restrictions on children and Australians and called for the Royal Commission to ask these important questions. While Liberal senators supported the motion, Labor senators expressed reluctance, citing costs and delays. Independent MP Zali Steggall believed a royal commission was necessary to provide answers to Australians about the impact of COVID-19 and related issues. The terms of reference are expected to be completed by March 31, 2024.