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August 20, 2026
Greens Senator Nick McKim has accused the Albanese Government of being “captured by Zionist interests” in a fiery Senate speech, prompting Liberal Senator James Paterson to accuse him of promoting dangerous conspiracy theories.
During a speech in the Senate, McKim claimed the Labor Party and Paterson himself had been “captured by Zionist interests”.
He also said that they were beholden to the “Five Eyes security” establishment - the intelligence-sharing arrangement between Australia, the United States, UK, New Zealand and Canada.
Paterson interjected, prompting a clash across the chamber and demands from the Coalition for McKim to withdraw his remarks.
McKim withdrew a comment directed at Paterson but refused to withdraw his broader accusations about Zionists.
“I’m entitled to say Zionist interests,” he said.
“I have withdrawn the comments I made in regards to Senator Paterson and I’ll leave it there.”
Senator James Paterson responded.
"In the abundance of being helpful to assist Senator McKim so he has the time to reflect on this," he said.
"During the Royal Commission right now into antisemitism, standing up in the chamber and accusing other people of being captured by Zionist interests is a dangerous and reckless than to do”.
McKim claimed he had not breached any standing order and said “good judgement” was not a breach.
He said he was happy to reflect on the matter.
Paterson said it is common knowledge that the word Zionist is often used instead of the word Jew.
“After Bondi and in the middle of a royal commission into antisemitism, it is incredibly reckless and irresponsible to claim that the Australian government has been captured by ‘Zionist interests’,” he said.
“It feeds the worst conspiracy theories at the worst possible time.
“The Greens have learned nothing from the last three years and their role in fuelling the antisemitism crisis which culminated in tragedy.
"Nick McKim should immediately apologise and refrain from this dangerous rhetoric.”
Zionism refers to support for a Jewish homeland and the existence of the State of Israel.
According to the NSW Police statement of facts, the shooters behind the Bondi terror attack had allegedly condemned Zionists and recorded a video before an Islamic State flag.
There has been escalating hatred and racism against Jews, often committed under the banner of anti-Zionism, since the October 7 attack on Israel by the terror group, Hamas.
The Royal Commission into Antisemitism is currently examining these issues.