Paul Scarr
LP Federal

Shadow Minister for Immigration

Elected 2019

6 years

Senator for Queensland (QLD)

Federal - QLD

Paul was born in 1969 in Sydney. He moved to Queensland with his family at the age of 7, seeking opportunities provided by government subsidies. Paul attended Ipswich Grammar School.

After completing his schooling, Paul enrolled at the University of Queensland, and in 1992, graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws (Honours). He also holds a Graduate Diploma in Applied Corporate Governance. Following university, Paul worked as a solicitor and later, as an associate, at var...

Unlock full biography

Portfolios

  • Shadow Minister for Immigration
  • Shadow Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs

Committees

  • Legal and Constitutional Affairs: Legislation
  • Legal and Constitutional Affairs: References
  • Scrutiny of Bills
  • Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation
  • Corporations and Financial Services
Access full profiles including advisers, parliamentary positions, friendship groups, factions and more.
Start Free Trial

First Speech in Parliament

10 September 2019

# Free Speech # Economic Opportunity # International Relations

Personal Background and Values

  • Paul Scarr reflects on his early political experiences, recalling a 1990 election campaign that shaped his understanding of the impact of political decisions on citizens' lives.
  • He emphasises his values rooted in Sir Robert Menzies' vision of individual freedoms, advocating for free speech and the importance of personal beliefs.

Economic and Social Policy

  • Scarr asserts the link between individual freedoms and economic opportunity, advocating against excessive government intervention and bureaucracy.
  • He highlights the role of free enterprise in lifting people out of poverty, citing personal experiences from his time at PanAust, where mining initiatives provided significant community benefits.
  • He stresses the importance of local communities in decision-making regarding development projects, advocating for streamlined approval processes for major projects.

International Perspectives and Community Engagement

  • Scarr discusses Australia's relationship with Papua New Guinea, advocating for increased understanding and connection through educational initiatives and economic partnerships.
  • He acknowledges the diversity and multiculturalism of Australia, celebrating its unique history and the contributions of individuals from various backgrounds.

Read Full Speech

FAQ

Paul Scarr represents the Senate seat of Queensland in the Australian Parliament.

Paul Scarr is a member of the Liberal Party.

Latest Updates

Never miss a beat with Pulse. AI-powered political alerts - curated by us, tailored for you.
Start Free Trial

In Parliament

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE: TAKE NOTE OF ANSWERS

Answers to Questions

Australian Federal Parliament • Senate • 26 March

AI Summary

  • Ministers provided answers to questions on key national topics during Question Time.
  • Issues discussed included economic policies, health care, and environmental concerns.
  • The session highlighted the government's stance on current legislative priorities.

ADJOURNMENT

Budget, Queensland: Community Organisations, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chinese Museum of Queensland, Wang, Mr Jimmy

Australian Federal Parliament • Senate • 25 March

AI Summary

  • Discussion on the impact of the federal budget on community organisations in Queensland.
  • Mr Jimmy Wang highlights the contributions of various organisations, including the Chinese Museum of Queensland.
  • Concerns raised regarding funding support and the need for increased government assistance.

Social Media

Posted on Facebook • 6 July 2025

The Congolese community in Queensland hosted a wonderful youth festival at Redbank Recreational Reserve over the weekend. I was delighted to provide my support and to participate in the great games for the whole family. Thanks so much to everyone involved!
Open Post

Posted on Facebook • 5 July 2025

Congratulations to Kenyans in Queensland for hosting a wonderful Madaraka Day Family Festival. Madaraka Day is the day that Kenya achieved self rule on the road to independence. Great to see a celebration for the whole family! Thanks also to members of other communities who came to provide support!
Open Post

Posted on X • 5 July 2025

The arson attack in Melbourne overnight on a synagogue with members of the congregation in attendance is a despicable act. It is a crime of hate. Those responsible should face the full force of the law.   I am also deeply disturbed by other antisemitic incidents in Melbourne overnight targeting a Jewish owned restaurant and business. Please see the joint statement issued by the Opposition below.
Open Post

Posted on X • 5 July 2025

Energy Pricing Small Business

Since July 1, the Albanese Labor Government have rolled out a raft of changes that will hit households, businesses and workers in the hip pocket. Whether it’s higher electricity prices, increased small business costs, more red tape or new vehicle taxes, the common thread is clear - Australians are being asked to pay more and get less!
Open Post

Posted on LinkedIn • 28 January 2025

Nothing says Australia Day like a Football Game in the scorching heat! On Sunday Afternoon, I tagged along to watch The Burundi Stars at the Bethania Football Club. They took on another team from New Zealand!! Last time the Burundi Stars travelled to New Zealand and took on the Kiwis, they won the match! I am also a proud sponsor of the Burundi Stars and it was great to cheer them on today!
Open Post

Posted on LinkedIn • 27 January 2025

Every Australia Day, I am honored to be asked to participate in Citizenship Ceremonies across our region. Today, I celebrated my first citizenship ceremony with the Lions Club of Inala at The Blue Fin Fishing Club. Congratulations to the 80 conferees from more than 22 countries who become Australians at today’s event, including the biggest family (of eight!) to ever become citizens in the one ceremony in the history on the Inala Citizenship Celebrations. I look forward to seeing the positive...
Open Post