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September 02, 2025 – Australia/Lebanon –
Australian MP Bob Katter is facing mounting controversy after threatening to punch a reporter who asked about his Lebanese heritage during a press conference supporting an anti-immigration rally. The aggressive exchange was captured on video and has sparked widespread reactions from media condemnation to potential parliamentary sanctions.
During a media appearance in Brisbane, when asked by Channel Nine reporter Josh Bavas about his Lebanese heritage, Katter accused him of racism and warned, “I punch blokes in the mouth for saying that.” He followed up by stating Bavas would “answer to Jesus,” doubling down on his hostility.
The confrontation drew sharp criticism from multiple quarters:
- Channel Nine condemned Katter’s conduct as unacceptable and demanded a public apology; legal action for defamation is being considered.
- Greens Senator Sarah Hanson‑Young referred the incident to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission (IPSC), calling for an apology or resignation.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged Katter to reflect on his behavior, emphasizing that being “colorful” does not excuse threats.
Katter has shown no intention of backing down. Instead of apologizing, he doubled down, asserting that the reporter provoked him and that he should have been even more aggressive.
If the IPSC finds that Katter violated parliamentary standards, the matter could be escalated to the Privileges Committee, which has the authority to recommend suspension or even dock his pay.
As tensions grow—amid anti-immigration protests and rising nationalist rhetoric—this confrontation highlights a critical question facing Australia’s parliament: will there be accountability for threats directed at journalists, or will a “colorful” reputation shield those in power from consequences?
Reference –
https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/09/02/australian-mp-in-strife-for-threatening-to-punch-reporter/
