The Australian Federal Police (AFP) will investigate a protest stunt that interrupted One Nation leader Pauline Hanson's National Press Club address in Canberra on Wednesday.
Banner Unfurled During Speech
A banner featuring a picture of Hanson and the statement "I opposed a pay rise for workers while I took a $100,000 pay rise for myself" was unfurled behind her as she delivered her first address at the club.
Activist group GetUp! has claimed responsibility for the sign. David Sharaz, the group's campaign director and husband of former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins, is accused of being behind the stunt.
National Press Club Statement
"David Sharaz was seen filming the incident on his phone and, after the banner had lowered, left abruptly," the National Press Club said in a statement.
The club said two people appear to have "entered the club building yesterday afternoon without permission and installed a separate drop-down screen in front of our media wall".
"It is evident that a further person present during the address activated a remote control device to trigger the unfurling of the coiler banner."
The club denied involvement with the matter and is considering legal action against the perpetrators for damage to the wall.
"The club sincerely apologises to Senator Hanson for the incident," the National Press Club said.
AFP Investigation
The AFP is now reviewing the evidence that has been submitted and will examine security protocols.
"ACT Policing has received a complaint regarding the alleged unauthorised access and interference with equipment in a building in Barton," police said.
"Investigations into this matter are underway including examination by AFP Forensics officers."
Hanson's Response
The banner slid down while Hanson was talking about the cost of living.
"Just tell me, is this another first? I believe it is, I believe it is. I get a lot of firsts in my life," Hanson said as the incident unfolded.
She continued to jump shakily from topic to topic during her 90-minute speech, which called for a monoculture in Australia, criticised climate action, and linked migration levels to housing supply in her promise to slash immigration.
She made comments against Islam, transgender rights, and even maternity leave when asked about the gender pay gap: "Why should business pay them if they're not at work?" she said.
GetUp! Response
GetUp! has spoken out after claiming the banner stunt, calling Hanson's speech "a horrifying vision for an Australia under her billionaire masters' thumb".
"It's the vision of a dictator, straight out of the Trump playbook, and it's not normal."
"Hanson's disgusting speech made one thing clearer than ever: she hates Australia and Australians."
"We will always stand for an Australia that is fair and just. We will always stand for a democracy that serves the people of this nation. And we won't be silent while wannabe dictators try and destroy the country we love."
