If you are interested in a candidate who does not appear below from Labor, the Coalition, the Greens, Animal Justice Party, Fusion Party, HEART Party, Gerard Rennick People First Party or the Legalise Cannabis Party, you can see their party’s position on Tibet in our Election Scorecard.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

David Smith – Australian Labor Party
Sitting Member and Candidate for Bean

Throughout the last parliamentary term, Mr Smith showed his commitment to Tibet by being an active member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet. Mr Smith also visited Dharamsala in 2024 where he met with the Tibetan government in exile and the Dalai Lama.

You can view the speech Mr Smith gave at the 65th Tibetan Uprising Day event in Dharamsala here.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

John August – FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation
Candidate for Bennelong

I will note that in the past I gave a speech in support of Hong Kongers at Sydney University, a group that had reached out to me outside a particular election, and I was happy to help, with a speech critical of China. I interviewed Drew Pavlou on a past community radio show, and had good relations with the Democratic Alliance candidate in Bennelong at the last election and was surprised at how pro-China the Libertarian candidate was.

I’ve also been quite interested in Buddhism, in particularly the nature of personal identity and the self.

I appreciate that like me, you may feel the need to procedural in your approach, and this may mean you cannot suggest to your supporters that they vote for me. That’s quite understandable, and I can only hope that everyone finds a candidate they feel comfortable voting for, whether that be for me or someone else.

Barry Devine – HEART Party
Candidate for Bennelong

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

Yes, I will support the Australian Government to recognise the Dalai Lama. I believe Tibet is the true physical and spiritual home of the Delai Lama and I believe the Chinese government should withdraw totally from Tibet

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

Yes, I will support Australia to use Magnitsky laws to sanction any abuse of human rights

Question 3: If elected, will you commit to meeting with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community during the next parliamentary session?

Yes, I will meet with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community if the opportunity is there.

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

I don’t support abuses of human rights, and I do oppose human rights abuses of all kinds. The R in HEART in for Rights and I will fight to uphold the rights of everybody that I am able to. I am totally supportive of Tibet.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Paul Toner – The Greens
Candidate for Blair

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

YES

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

YES

Question 3: If elected, will you commit to meeting with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community during the next parliamentary session?

YES

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

The world responded to The Horrors of World War Two by creating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The invasion and occupation of Tibet was one of the early failures of the international community to ensure Universal human rights. Until the people of Tibet will have the rights to self-determination, self-expression and cultural rights that failure will not be addressed.

Anthony Hopkins – Legalise Cannabis Party
Candidate for Blair

The Legalise Cannabis Party stands firmly against oppression in all forms. We believe in protecting the rights of all people to their language, culture, religion, and way of life. We support international cooperation that promotes human rights, transparency and dignity for all communities.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Joseph Wheeler – Gerard Rennick People First Party
Candidate for Brisbane

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

Yes—People First supports the self-determination of all peoples, and respects religious traditions free from foreign political interference.

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

Yes—We believe Magnitsky-style sanctions should be applied proportionately against proven human rights abusers, including CCP officials where justified.

Question 3: If elected, will you commit to meeting with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community during the next parliamentary session?

Yes—I would welcome the opportunity to engage directly with the Tibetan-Australian community and the Australia Tibet Council in Parliament.

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

We stand for the dignity of all people and, while our formal policies are unabashedly focused on Australia’s most pressing economic and social concerns, we of course recognise that human rights must be protected regardless of geopolitical interests or economic pressures. These rights are not only founded in international legal rules and norms but, in my view, consonant with Australian values.

Cheryl Wood – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation
Candidate for Brisbane

Support the independence of the people of Tibet – not the CCP Govt.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Isabel Mudford – Australian Greens
Candidate for Canberra

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

The Australian Greens only recognises a Dalai Lama appointed via Tibet Buddhist traditions and practices, without interference by the Chinese government. We will continue to advocate that the Australian Government also take that approach, including exploring legislative options in the coming Parliament.

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

The Greens have consistently called for application of targeted sanctions on Chinese officials or companies responsible for severe human rights abuses, including those committed against Tibetans.

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

The Greens have consistently advocated for the human rights of Tibetans, and advocated for greater action by the Australian Government to respond to the serious human rights violations being committed by the Chinese Government. We have consistently raised the plight of Tibetans in speeches in the Australian Parliament and will continue to do so in the coming Parliament.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Paul Gullan – Legalise Cannabis Party
Candidate for Canning

The Legalise Cannabis Party stands firmly against oppression in all forms. We believe in protecting the rights of all people to their language, culture, religion, and way of life. We support international cooperation that promotes human rights, transparency and dignity for all communities.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Fred Mulholland – Legalise Cannabis Party
Candidate for Curtin

The Legalise Cannabis Party stands firmly against oppression in all forms. We believe in protecting the rights of all people to their language, culture, religion, and way of life. We support international cooperation that promotes human rights, transparency and dignity for all communities.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Denis Fricot – Trumpet of Patriots
Candidate for Fisher

The Tibetan people have long suffered and are entitled to their own sovereignty. Countries meddling in the affairs of other countries needs to stop. The Tibetans are a quiet, peaceful people, who have a culturally rich heritage. Dialogue needs to be established that will put an end to human rights abuses not only for the people of Tibet but worldwide. Enough is enough.

Andrew Wallace – LNP
Sitting Member and Candidate for Fisher

Throughout the last parliamentary term, Mr Wallace showed his commitment to Tibet by being an active member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet.

Mr Wallace also moved a significant Private Members Motion in support of Tibet in the House of Representatives of the Australian Parliament in September 2024. The motion was passed with bipartisan support. 

You can view the speech Mr Wallace gave in support of his Private Members Motion here.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Adrian Carle – Legalise Cannabis Party
Candidate for Gilmore

The Legalise Cannabis Party stands firmly against oppression in all forms. We believe in protecting the rights of all people to their language, culture, religion, and way of life. We support international cooperation that promotes human rights, transparency and dignity for all communities.

Kate Dezarnaulds – Independent
Candidate for Gilmore

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

Yes, I will support the Australian Government committing to only recognising a future Dalai Lama chosen by the Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government.

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

I am deeply committed to upholding human rights and ensuring accountability for those who violate them. While I support strong measures to address human rights abuses, including sanctions where appropriate, I do not yet have sufficient information about the specific application of Magnitsky laws in this context to provide a definitive position. I would welcome the opportunity to learn more about how these laws have been used and consult with experts to better understand the most effective ways Australia can respond to human rights abuses.

Question 3: If elected, will you commit to meeting with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community during the next parliamentary session?

Yes, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community.

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

Every person, regardless of where they live, deserves the freedom to practice their religion, express their culture, and shape their own future. Protecting human rights means standing with those whose voices are silenced and whose freedoms are denied. I stand in solidarity with all people who face persecution for their beliefs, culture, or desire for self-determination. Upholding these rights is essential for dignity, justice, and peace in our shared world.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Ben Howman – Legalise Cannabis Party
Candidate for Indi

The Legalise Cannabis Party stands firmly against oppression in all forms. We believe in protecting the rights of all people to their language, culture, religion, and way of life. We support international cooperation that promotes human rights, transparency and dignity for all communities.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Lisa Cotton – Independent
Candidate for Mackellar

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the human rights situation in Tibet. The ongoing challenges faced by the Tibetan people, including restrictions on their cultural, religious, and linguistic rights, are alarming and require urgent attention from the international community.

Human rights are universal and should be guaranteed to all individuals, regardless of their nationality or ethnicity. The Tibetan people’s right to preserve their cultural identity and practice their religion freely is being suppressed. Reports of arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, and the curtailment of freedoms of expression and peaceful
assembly are troubling and warrant a robust response.

It is imperative for governments and organisations worldwide including the Australian Federal Parliament, to stand in solidarity with the Tibetan people. We must advocate for their rights and support initiatives that promote dialogue and understanding. Only through collaborative efforts can we hope to foster an environment where human rights are respected and protected for every individual, including those in Tibet.

As we approach election day, I urge all stakeholders to prioritise human rights issues in their agendas and to take a firm stance against any violations. Together, we can work towards a future where the dignity and rights of all people, including the Tibetan community, are upheld. Thank you for your invitation for comment.

Brad Hayman – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation
Candidate for Mackellar

If I am elected, I will gladly engage with your council and familiarize myself with this matter. My personal stance is that every person and culture should be entitled to practice their faith freely and without prejudice or discrimination and I will support every sector of the Mackellar community towards that end.

If elected I will be a champion for the Tibetan people in Australia. I will fight their case in parliament at every opportunity.

Ethan Hrnjak – The Greens
Candidate for Mackellar

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

Yes, I support in full.

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

Yes, I support in full.

Dr Sophie Scamps – Independent
Sitting Member and Candidate for Mackellar

Throughout the last parliamentary term, Dr Scamps showed her commitment to Tibet by being an active member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet. Dr Scamps also visited Dharamsala in 2023 where she met with the Tibetan government in exile and the Dalai Lama.

You can view the speech Dr Scamps gave to the House of Representatives of the Australian Parliament in June 2023 here.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Susan Templeman – Labor
Sitting Member and Candidate for Macquarie

Throughout the last parliamentary term, Ms Templeman showed her commitment to Tibet by taking on the role of co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet. Ms Templeman also visited Dharamsala in 2023 where she met with the Tibetan government in exile and the Dalai Lama.

You can view the speech Ms Templeman gave to the House of Representatives of the Australian Parliament in June 2023 here.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Sharon Claydon – Labor
Sitting Member and Candidate for Newcastle

Throughout the last parliamentary term, Ms Claydon showed her commitment to Tibet by being an active member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet. Ms Claydon also visited Dharamsala in 2023 where she met with the Tibetan government in exile and the Dalai Lama.

In her role as Deputy Speaker of the House of Respresentatives, Ms Claydon hosted an event to welcome Sikyong Penpa Tsering to the Australian Parliament in June 2023. 

Charlotte Mccabe​ – Australian Greens
Candidate for Newcastle

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

The Australian Greens only recognises a Dalai Lama appointed via Tibet Buddhist traditions and practices, without interference by the Chinese government. We will continue to advocate that the Australian Government also take that approach, including exploring legislative options in the coming Parliament.

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

The Greens have consistently called for application of targeted sanctions on Chinese officials or companies responsible for severe human rights abuses, including those committed against Tibetans.

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

The Greens have consistently advocated for the human rights of Tibetans, and advocated for greater action by the Australian Government to respond to the serious human rights violations being committed by the Chinese Government. We have consistently raised the plight of Tibetans in speeches in the Australian Parliament and will continue to do so in the coming Parliament.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Vivian (Mac) McMahon – Legalise Cannabis Party
Candidate for Richmond

The Legalise Cannabis Party stands firmly against oppression in all forms. We believe in protecting the rights of all people to their language, culture, religion, and way of life. We support international cooperation that promotes human rights, transparency and dignity for all communities.

Phillip Byron Peterkin – Trumpet of Patriots
Candidate for Richmond

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

Yes, I do support.

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

Yes, I do support.

Question 3: If elected, will you commit to meeting with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community during the next parliamentary session?

Yes

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

Free Tibet was a commonly used flag I remember seeing many years ago. Human rights are so very important and are an integral part of a functioning and successful society. I would be most happy to see resolve in Tibet and many other countries.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Michael McCormack – The Nationals
Sitting Member and Candidate for Riverina

Throughout the last parliamentary term, Mr McCormack showed his commitment to Tibet by being an active member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet. Mr McCormack also visited Dharamsala in 2024 where he met with the Tibetan government in exile and the Dalai Lama.

You can view the speech Mr McCormack gave at the 65th Tibetan Uprising Day event in Dharamsala here.

Pheonix Valxori – The Greens
Candidate for Riverina

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

Yes. It is not up to anyone but Tibetans and Buddhists to decide who the Dalai Lama is. I will push for the Australian Government to acknowledge only a Dalai Lama chosen through the method mentioned above.

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

Yes, Australia should always stand for the rights of all humans and shouldn’t stand by just because they are an ally.

Question 3: If elected, will you commit to meeting with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community during the next parliamentary session?

I would absolutely love to meet with Australia Tibet Council and members to ensure the actions taken by parliament are respectful and productive.

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

Tibet is a beautiful place with a unique culture just like anywhere else. Standing by while human beings are being abused and mistreated is not, and cannot be permitted. We should criticise and where appropriate, punish all countries who condone the abuses of Tibetans and any other person experiencing human rights violations.

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Bonnie Harvey​ – Australian Greens
Candidate for Warringah

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

The Australian Greens only recognises a Dalai Lama appointed via Tibet Buddhist traditions and practices, without interference by the Chinese government. We will continue to advocate that the Australian Government also take that approach, including exploring legislative options in the coming Parliament.

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

The Greens have consistently called for application of targeted sanctions on Chinese officials or companies responsible for severe human rights abuses, including those committed against Tibetans.

Question 4: Would you like to make a short statement about your position on Tibet (or human rights more generally)?

The Greens have consistently advocated for the human rights of Tibetans, and advocated for greater action by the Australian Government to respond to the serious human rights violations being committed by the Chinese Government. We have consistently raised the plight of Tibetans in speeches in the Australian Parliament and will continue to do so in the coming Parliament.

David Spratt – Independent
Candidate for Warringah

Question 1: Will you support the Australian Government committing to only recognise a future Dalai Lama chosen by Tibetan people using Tibetan Buddhists traditional processes, without any interference by the Chinese government?

Yes

Question 2: Will you support, where appropriate, Australia utilising Magnitsky laws to sanction those CCP officials abusing the human rights of Tibetans, including those already sanctioned by Australia’s allies?

Yes

Question 3: If elected, will you commit to meeting with representatives of the Australia Tibet Council and members of the Tibetan-Australian community during the next parliamentary session?

Yes

Party positions for candidates from Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens can be seen in our Election Scorecard.

Margee Glover – Legalise Cannabis Party
Candidate for Wills

The Legalise Cannabis Party stands firmly against oppression in all forms. We believe in protecting the rights of all people to their language, culture, religion, and way of life. We support international cooperation that promotes human rights, transparency and dignity for all communities.