About Deborah

Senator Deborah O’Neill is a Labor Senator for New South Wales.

She first entered federal politics in 2010 when she was elected as the Member for Robertson on the Central Coast of NSW.

Her number one priority is to be a strong voice for NSW – always determined to see the very best for her state. She is passionate about the rights of Australian workers, gender equality, a world class education system and creating a country with a strong economy and a fair society.

In the Senate

Senate Updates: Women and Girls in STEM, and Eating Disorders

I’m sure you’ll be as surprised as I was, Mr Acting Deputy President Brockman, to find out that when children aged nine to 11 were asked to draw a scientist two-thirds of them drew a man. Did you know that only around one-third of girls in year 4 in Australia were confident in… Read More

Industrial Deaths: Families Speak

I rise to make my contribution on the arrival in this chamber of this very significant report on industrial deaths. I acknowledge those who have travelled here, physically, from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and as far away as Western Australia, but the journeys that you’ve undertaken… Read More

Matters of Public Importance: Gambling

I am pleased to be able to participate in this afternoon’s MPI, moved by Senator Siewert, about the need for the federal government to take a stronger, more active and direct role in the regulation of harmful and predatory gambling. I want to take the opportunity to put on… Read More

Indigenous Affairs: Housing

You would think that, of all days, this is the day that the Liberal Party would get this right. Those sitting here in the chamber today represent the Australian population. I want you to remember this day and participate in holding every government to account, on this day, the… Read More

Condolences: Barry Cohen 3/4/1935 – 18/12/2017

It is a sad occasion on which to rise, but I absolutely appreciate the opportunity to put on the record remarks around the amazing Barry Cohen. I recall the first time I met Barry Cohen. I was considering running for preselection and I was advised that I should go… Read More

Matters of Public Importance: Budget

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