Garth Hamilton Storms Out of Question Time After Outburst; Chalmers Says Opposition Having ‘Meltdown’ Not Marketing Problem

A dramatic day in Australian Parliament saw Liberal MP Garth Hamilton storm out of Question Time after an explosive exchange, while Treasurer Jim Chalmers accused the opposition of suffering a “meltdown” rather than facing a communications problem.

The incident unfolded during a heated parliamentary session where tensions between the government and opposition escalated over a series of policy debates and procedural disputes. Hamilton was ejected from the chamber following an outburst in which he reportedly shouted an expletive during proceedings, prompting the Speaker to intervene and order disciplinary action.

Parliamentary officials confirmed that Hamilton was formally named and suspended for 24 hours following the incident. The move came after repeated calls from government members to maintain order in the chamber, with Speaker Milton Dick describing the situation as “a new low” in parliamentary conduct.

As the confrontation escalated, Hamilton left the chamber abruptly, drawing further criticism from Labor MPs who accused the opposition of failing to maintain discipline during key debates. The incident added to already heightened tensions within the Coalition, which has been grappling with internal disagreements and public criticism over strategy and messaging.

In response to opposition attacks on government policy, Treasurer Jim Chalmers used his parliamentary appearance to sharply criticise the Coalition, arguing that its problems go beyond public relations. He described the opposition as experiencing a “meltdown,” suggesting internal divisions and policy confusion were undermining its effectiveness.

Chalmers also accused opposition figures of pursuing a “divisive agenda,” intensifying the political back-and-forth that has defined recent parliamentary sessions. His remarks were met with strong reactions from opposition members, further deepening the divide between the two sides of Parliament.

The day’s events reflect growing volatility in Australian politics, where debates over economic policy, housing, and party direction have increasingly spilled into personal and procedural clashes on the parliamentary floor.

While the government continues to push its legislative agenda, the opposition faces mounting scrutiny over leadership stability and messaging coherence. Analysts say incidents like Wednesday’s walkout highlight broader tensions that could shape the political landscape in the lead-up to the next federal election.

As Parliament continues its session, both sides are expected to remain locked in sharp exchanges, with little sign of immediate de-escalation in political rhetoric.