AFP Launches Investigation into Senator Thorpe's Rally Comments
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has initiated an investigation into remarks made by independent Senator Lidia Thorpe during a pro-Palestine rally held in Melbourne on Sunday, October 12, 2025. Senator Thorpe is alleged to have stated, 'So we stand with you every day, and we will fight every day, and we will turn up every day, and if I have to, burn down Parliament House to make a point'. The comments have drawn significant attention and widespread condemnation across the political spectrum in Australia.
Context of the Controversial Remarks
Senator Thorpe's comments were delivered at a rally where she reportedly drew parallels between the plight of Palestinians and that of First Nations Australians. The rally was part of a series of nationwide pro-Palestine events. Her statement, which included the phrase 'I am not there to make friends', was made in the context of advocating for justice and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The full quote attributed to her was: 'We stand with you every day, and we will fight every day, and we will turn up every day, and if I have to burn down Parliament House to make a point … I am not there to make friends.'
AFP's Immediate Response and Ongoing Inquiry
The AFP's National Security Investigations team in Victoria commenced an inquiry 'almost immediately' following the rally to ascertain whether Senator Thorpe's comments constitute a breach of legislation. A spokesperson for the AFP indicated that while it is 'not the usual practice of the AFP to provide a running commentary on matters,' they are seeking to 'reassure the community that this issue is being appropriately considered and undertaken in a timely manner.' The specific legislation potentially breached has not been publicly disclosed by the AFP.
Senator Thorpe Clarifies 'Metaphorical' Intent
On Monday, October 13, 2025, Senator Thorpe issued a clarification regarding her remarks, asserting that they were 'clearly a figure of speech – a metaphor for the pain in our communities and the urgent need to end genocide in Palestine and everywhere.' She further stated that the comments were 'obviously not a literal threat' and dismissed the ensuing backlash as 'mock outrage,' suggesting it was a distraction from the core issues of suffering in Gaza.
Widespread Political Condemnation
The senator's comments have elicited strong reactions from various political figures. One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson accused Senator Thorpe of 'treason' and 'terrorism,' calling for a thorough investigation. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke described the remarks as 'irresponsible' and urged for a 'turning down the temperature' in public discourse. Similarly, Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek labeled the comments 'absolutely irresponsible.' The Coalition has also indicated it would 'consider options' for a reprimand, including a potential censure motion against Senator Thorpe when the Senate reconvenes.
6 Comments
Michelangelo
Investigate her thoroughly! This is not how you make a point in a civil society.
Donatello
Using such confrontational language like 'burn down Parliament' risks alienating potential allies and overshadowing the important message. It's crucial to advocate for change, but the method needs to be strategic and not easily misinterpreted as a threat.
Rotfront
They're deliberately misinterpreting her words. It's about urgency, not literal arson.
Africa
Burn down Parliament? That's treasonous language. Unfit for public office.
ZmeeLove
Absolutely disgraceful. Inciting violence against our democratic institutions is unacceptable.
Leonardo
Finally, someone brave enough to highlight the pain of our communities and Palestine.