The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have launched an investigation into a protest that disrupted a speech by Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, at the National Press Club. During her address on Wednesday, a banner depicting an edited image of Hanson with text criticising her stance on workers' pay and her own salary increase was unfurled behind her.
Political activist organisation GetUp! has taken responsibility for the incident. In a statement, GetUp!'s chief executive, Paul Ferris, said the stunt was designed to draw attention to Hanson's voting record on issues impacting the cost of living. Ferris highlighted that One Nation has consistently opposed measures such as wage rises, affordable childcare, increases to the aged pension, and housing affordability, despite Hanson's public image as a champion of 'battlers'.
The National Press Club confirmed it had referred the matter to the police after its own internal review concluded that no club staff were involved. The club stated that it appeared two individuals gained unauthorised entry to the building the day prior to install a separate drop-down screen, and a third person present during the speech activated a remote device to unfurl the banner. Forensic testing was reportedly conducted at the site in Barton by ACT policing.
Further details emerged regarding the incident, with the National Press Club noting that David Sharaz, a former journalist now employed by GetUp!, was present at the event and was seen filming the banner as it was unfurled. Sharaz, who is also the husband of Brittany Higgins, reportedly left abruptly after the banner was lowered. The Press Club indicated that this information is likely to form part of the AFP's ongoing investigation.
Maurice Reilly, the chief executive of the National Press Club, personally intervened during the speech, walking onto the stage with another staff member to remove the banner, stating, "We're not doing stunts, all right... we're at the press club." The club has apologised to Pauline Hanson for the disruption and stated it will consider legal options against those responsible, including recovering costs for what it described as significant damage to its media wall/lightbox, once the police investigation concludes.