The Senate was hearing condolences for Hughes on Wednesday when Lambie interrupted those in order to push for debate on a private member’s bill linking links military pay to parliamentarian pay.
“Like the President of the Senate I thought the Phillip Highes’ condolence motion was finalized,” she wrote in a statement.
“So I proceeded in my attempt to suspend standing orders so that I could debate my legislation, which would have guaranteed that members of our ADF receive a pay rise.
“It was the first time that I’ve moved a suspension of standing orders and it appears that some want to use the slight confusion created over the transition from one senate procedure to another, against me.
“I apologise to Phillip Hughes’ family and friends if my misunderstanding of senate procedure has offended them. This must be a very difficult and sad day for them. Speeches given in the senate for Phillip were magnificent and inspiration.
“In particular Senator John Faulkner spoke of Phillips’ life and cricket career with such eloquence, passion and compassion, it was a privilege to hear Phillip’s life and achievements discussed in such a beautiful and heartfelt way and my sincere sympathy and condolences go to the Hughes family and friends.”