Defence department backs call to bar social media sharing of Senate hearing footage

The Australian defence department approved a senior official’s request that footage of public servants giving evidence at a Senate hearing not be shared on social media, citing the risk of online bullying and national‑security concerns.

The Guardian reported that deputy secretary Celia Perkins drafted the request, which was flagged with the offices of deputy prime minister Richard Marles and assistant minister for defence Peter Khalil. Department secretary Meghan Quinn gave the proposal her backing, according to emails obtained by Guardian Australia under freedom‑of‑information rules.

The move has drawn heavy criticism, with observers questioning the impact on public scrutiny of parliamentary proceedings. The Guardian noted that the request, made in September, sparked controversy within political circles and among media commentators.

Why it matters

The decision could limit public access to parliamentary evidence and raises questions about how government balances security concerns with transparency.

Key details

Location

United States · Americas

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

29 Oct 2026, 11:05 IST

Key names

Senate, Guardian Australia, Celia Perkins’

Section

Technology

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianDefence backed claim that social media footage of public servants could invite bullying 29 Oct, 11:05

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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