Shadow Minister for Immigration Paul Scarr has spoken out in the Senate against a pamphlet linked to the planned “March for Australia” rally on 31 August, saying it unfairly targets Australians of Indian heritage.
“I rise and stand in solidarity with all Australians of Indian heritage… I’m not going to repeat the statement which is contained in the pamphlet that’s been obtaining some press coverage during the course of the day… It is causing great distress to Australians of Indian heritage, including in my home state of Queensland,” Senator Scarr said.
He described the language in the material as unacceptable. “So, I am compelled to rise in this place at the earliest opportunity to call it out and to condemn it and say that the language and references to Australians of Indian heritage is unacceptable. It is outrageous… it seeks to divide Australians at a time when we need to unite.”
Referring to the contribution of Indian Australians, Senator Scarr said: “I say at this time to Australians of Indian heritage that your community is a great blessing for our beautiful country… a great blessing for Australia… You belong. You are part of the Australian story… I see the work that you all do in the community… at times of flood, at times of bushfire, at [the time] of the Covid pandemic.”
“You belong. You make a wonderful contribution to our beautiful country, and you are the human bridge between Australia and India, and so important… for the future of this country. So, I thank you for every single thing you do.”
The Shadow Minister invoked the message of Diwali: “And I conclude my remarks with this, that light will triumph over darkness, that good will triumph over evil, and knowledge will triumph over ignorance.”
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
